Gerald Allan Matheson, 69

When tomorrow starts without me,

Don't think that we're far apart,

For every time you think of me,

I'm right here in your heart.

Gerald Allan Matheson, 69, passed away in Spokane, Wash., on Monday, Feb. 28, 2011.

Gerald was born in Redwood City, Calif., on July 3, 1941. He graduated from Menlo-Atherton High School, Atherton, Calif. He moved to the Coeur d'Alene area with his family in the 1960s. Upon his arrival in Idaho he began participating in Special Olympics, winning many trophies and medals as an athlete.

He loved gardening, was an avid coin collector and passionate about trains. Gerald also enjoyed attending craft shows, going to the movies and eating out. He was also very social; he loved people and spending time with family.

He is survived by his sister, Larraine Tuttle of Spokane; brother Robert (Jean) Matheson of Astoria, Ore.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Gerald is preceded in death by his mother, Lillian Howland, and stepfather Angus Matheson.

Memorials may be made to the Special Olympics Inc., 1133 19th St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20036, www.specialolympics.org or to the University of Washington Autism Center, by contacting Steve Hettinga at (206) 897-1887 or depts.washington.edu/uwautism.

Private family services will be held. English Funeral Chapel, Coeur d'Alene, is in charge of the arrangements.

Please sign Gerald's guest registry and view his online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.