About Donald J. Mathews

In memory of Donald J. Mathews (Honorary member)

BSME '48, MSM

While a student at the university, Mathews served as President of the Independents and Blue Key Club, Secretary-Treasurer of the Student Council, and Business Manager of the Engineers Club. Mathews was a member of ASME; he was active in Intramural sports and lettered in football. Upon his death, the Don and Alwilda Mathews Scholarship was established.

 After graduating, Mathews worked as an Industrial Engineer for two years with A.P. Green Fire Brick Co. in Mexico, MO. He then went to Standard Oil of Indiana as a Lubrication Sales Engineer for five years. He retired in 1988 after 31 years in Sales and Sales Management from Jefferson Smurfit Corp., an International Paper Manufacturer. Since retirement, he had been a consultant in packing and material handling and a Managing Partner of PCB Investment Club.

In his community, Mathews served on the Board and as President of the Northeast Arkansas Existing Industries Accosication and volunteered for the United Way. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club, serving as club president and Lieutenant Governor of Division 16 and the club secretary.

Mathews was a veteran of the US Air Force, having served in active and reserve duty for 22 years and retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He flew 30 combat missions in the European Theatre during WWII.

Donald and Alwilda were married in December 1949. Alwilda passed away in February 2004. Donald passed away two months later.