Ardith T. Matheny (Holmes), 93, slipped away peacefully in her longtime home of Winthrop on April 22, 2017, while her grandson Richard J. van Mourik, was visiting. Ardith was born on Aug. 30, 1923, in Aberdeen, Washington. After graduating from Elma High School in 1941, she spent a few years in Port Angeles, where she met her husband, Richard E. Matheny (“Big Dick”).
After retiring from her position as the city treasurer of Lynnwood in 1979, she enjoyed traveling the states with her husband and spending summers with her grandchildren.
Ardith was also known to love cats. She collected all things cats: pictures, posters, magnets, figurines and stuffed animal kitties to name a few of the items. Her current cat “Tiddy” found a loving home with one of her caretakers, “Kitty.”
Ardith was preceded in death by her husband and her son, Walter J. Bechtold. She is survived by her daughter, Ginger Lorene Bechtold; nephew Pete Jarvis; granddaughter Rebecca Underwood (van Mourik, husband Darrell); grandson Rich van Mourik (wife Patricia); and great-grandchildren Jordan Hill and Jeffrey Hall.
At this time Rich and Rebecca would also like to thank Ardith’s caretakers who helped her through her final journey with love, respect and granting her wish to stay at home until she passed, with the utmost professional care and guidance.
Sadly, her last wish for the grandkids to keep the cabin within the family has not been fulfilled. The true colors come out in some people in these times.
Ardith will be laid to rest with her husband at Floral Hills Cemetery. Date to be determined.
We love you, Gma!
