William Edwin "Bill" Matthews

William “Bill” Matthews, 78, passed away January 8, 2021 at his and Betty’s home in Cañon City with Betty and their dog, Cloe by his side. Bill was born August 30, 1942 in Steamboat Springs, Colorado to William and Martha Matthews. He was the youngest of four children, and the only son. The family later moved to Golden, Colorado where Bill graduated from Golden High in 1960. He enlisted in the Navy and traveled around the world before returning home to Colorado, where he married Jackie Bryant in 1963.They raised two children, Michael and Linda.

 Bill started working with his father and grandfather’s drilling company in the coal fields of northwestern Colorado, learning the trade and eventually running the business as a third-generation craftsman. The Company, Golden Drilling, prospered for many decades. Bill was well known as one of the best mountain drillers in the western United States. He worked and contributed to the success of many of Colorado’s most important infrastructure projects, such as the Eisenhower and Johnson Tunnels, many trans-mountain water tunnels, and most of the state’s major dams and reservoirs. Bill also completed numerous exploration drilling projects for many mining companies throughout the Rocky Mountain West. In later years, after he sold his company, Bill continued working as a master driller at a national geotechnical construction firm, mentoring many young people in the profession.

As a native Coloradan, Bill loved the mountains and outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved exploring back country jeep roads, and old mining camps.

After Jackie passed in 2011, Bill began a new chapter of travel and adventure with Betty Pardee. They enjoyed RV camping with Cloe, many hours riding their ATV and spent much time enjoying the southwestern United States. 

Bill is survived by his significant other of 10 years, Betty Pardee; his sister, Jean, of Denver; daughter, Linda, of Cañon City; son, Michael (Manal), of Brush, Colorado; grandchildren, Amanda, Kayla, Anna, Sarah, Taylor and Everett; great-grandchildren, Linley, Jovi, and Amelia. Bill will be greatly missed by his family and the many, many friends and co-workers he made during his life. His ashes will be scattered in the mountains as per his wishes.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made to Fremont Regional Hospice, 1439 Main St., Cañon City, CO 81212.

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