(St. George, UT) - Ramon Lynn Mathews, 65, passed away on Wednesday, July 11, 2012 from the effects of a massive stroke, suffered two weeks previously. Born in St. George, Utah on February 27, 1947, he was the fourth of five children, born to Ross W and Orma Woodard Mathews.

After graduating from Dixie High School in 1965, he was drafted into the US Army. He was honorably discharged after having served a tour in Viet Nam. He moved to Yearington, Nevada and lived with his brother Paul and his family and worked at Anaconda Copper Mine. Returning home he enrolled at Dixie College and graduated with his younger brother Omar. However, he soon returned to the family ranch where he spent the rest of his life.

Perhaps his uncanny ability as a master mechanic led him to operate farm machinery and heavy equipment for most of his life. He worked for Atwood Bundy, then alongside his brothers for Lewis & Mathews Construction (owned by Jerry Lewis and Omar), Desert Hills Construction and finally Bryce Christensen Excavation. He also operated his own track hoe working for many people throughout Washington County. His 40 year reputation as a track hoe operator is legendary.

Never marrying—he put all his time, energy and money into ranching the land homesteaded by his grandfather. His most satisfying hours were spent there.

Other men valued his traits of personal integrity, honesty, and his work ethic. Women recognized respect shown them, even when he teased. Two generations of children can quote his humor and will remember, discuss, and even emulate him.

His dry sense of humor and quick wit has always entertained friends and family and will never be forgotten. He is truly one of the rare breed of men who find meaning and purpose in constant hard labor.

Ramon is survived by siblings David (Sharon) of Las Vegas, NV, Valoy Hansberry, Paul (Dana) and sister-in-law, Kay Jean Hales all of St. George, UT; and nieces and nephews to whom he will remain a larger-than-life cowboy.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Omar; brother-in-law, Robert Hansberry; and niece, Lisa Mathews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 14, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George. Family and friends may call Friday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and also Saturday, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services, both held at the Mortuary. Interment will take place in the St. George City Cemetery with Military Rites.

The family gratefully acknowledges the highest levels of professional service and compassion shown by the staff at the DRMC ER and ICU, Acute Rehab Units and Kolob Care and Rehabilitation, as well as Applegate Hospice.

Arrangements handled by Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St. George, UT 84770 - (435) 673-2454.