It is with the profoundest of regret that we acknowledge the untimely passing of our friend, Matt Tatham.
It is with extreme sadness that I write this communication.
On Saturday September 12th 2OO9, Matt Tatham completed the Olympic Distance Triathlon finishing lst in his age group and 40th overall in a field of 294 athletes. Matt collapsed iust past the finish line and while paramedics were with him immediately, he passed away 35 minutes later at Collingwood General and Marine Hospital
This comes as a tremendous shock to all of us. Matt lived each and every day to the fullest. He was an avid triathlete, crosscountry runner, hiker, kite flying enthusiast and horticulturalist. Matt was one of the most respected professionals and colleagues in the bakery business in North America. More importantly Matt was a friend to all of us. He was the epitome of the model person who lived society's and Nealanders' values. His timely one liner puns will sorely bemissed.
Over the next few days, weeks and months, all of our leadership will be challenged. We need to unite as a company and as friends to help each and every one of us through this challenging time.
Nealanders will dearly miss our colleague and friend Matt. It is a solemn time for Matt's family and friends. Our heart felt sympathy goes out to all that knew and loved Matt.
Sincerely,
Daryl Holmes
Wednesday September 16, 2009
TATHAM
Charles Matheson (Matt)
November 21, 1957 – September 12, 2009
Suddenly upon completion of the Wasaga Beach triathalon. Aged 51 years. Born in Woodstock, Ontario and a graduate of Woodstock Collegiate Institute, Matt worked in a bakery part time during high school, played football and went to the Ontario finals in wrestling. He graduated from the University of Guelph with a degree in Food Science and started his career at Marks and Spencer with responsibility for cakes and cookies. He prospered over the next 25 years to become one of the most respected professionals in the bakery business in North America and was enjoying great success as Business Manager at Nealanders International Inc.
Matt was a Masters World Champion triathlete who successfully defended his title in Copenhagen this year. He much enjoyed his running club, triathlons, trail running and cycling. Matt was an ardent gardener and horticultural society award winner, who grew his own hops to brew his own beer. His extensive world travels included two years on a bicycle in Europe and Asia, five months on a kibbutz in Israel, as well as trips to Iceland, India, Machu Picchu, and the Pacific Coast Trail. He also enjoyed an annual winter ski trip with his brothers that over the years covered most of the best ski destinations in western Canada. A skilled photographer, his other hobbies included audio recording, composing and performing his own music, stamp collecting, and making, flying and fighting kites.
Matt lived each and every day to the fullest. His positive nature and upbeat attitude as a self described ''student of life'' was truly inspirational to everyone who knew him. He is survived by his companion of 24 years, John LaRocque and his parents, Sid and Marnie Tatham of Woodstock. He will be sorely missed by his 5 siblings: Robin, Paul (Nancy), Bill (Janna), Mary Ellen Rennie (Dan), and Ian (Edie) as well as his 12 nieces and nephews.
A service to celebrate his life will be held Saturday, September 19, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. with visitation on Friday September 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. as well as 1 hour prior to the service at the Morley Bedford Funeral Home, 159 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto, 416 489-8733. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the War Resisters Support Campaign (www.resisters.ca).
(This is the announcement from the Globe and Mail, Sept 16th edition. Please forwards details to anyone that has requested them)
Images of Matt can be viewed here.
