John Mathers
February 19, 1946 – August 6, 2023
John Mathers was larger than life. He had a joie de vivre and love of life that was infectious. He had a sense of humor and loved dressing up for special occasions with a variety of international costumes. When he was with you, you knew he was listening and hearing you. He enjoyed learning from others and would do whatever was necessary to help them succeed. He thoroughly enjoyed his Hospice volunteer work, his storytelling to youth at the Asian Art Museum, the Golden Gate Breakfast Club gatherings, and above all, his work with the Climate Change Youth Program through Rotary International. He was particularly proud of the young people he met around the world who were committed to trying to reverse climate change. John was a very active member of Rotary International, becoming President of the San Francisco chapter and coordinator of their world-wide Climate Change activities.
John was very proud of his children and how they have evolved: Nicole Mathers (teaching), Ursula Spagnolo (art and teaching), and Lara Ali (social services). He adored all of his grandchildren and did his best to nurture their creativity.
John always encouraged his wife, Peggy, in her endeavors. Through hard work and dedication, she is now a Master Gardener and Asian Art Museum docent, giving speeches about sustainable water usage, flowers, and Asian art across 17 countries.
John attended East Woods, Fessenden, and Middlesex School, before graduating from Hobart College. John initially worked in advertising in NYC, and married Mary Paine. Seeking a more fulfilling life, he moved to California and remarried. With Roseana, he had his three daughters: Nicole, Ursula and Lara, and now eight grandchildren. Eventually, he met the love of his life, Margaret Suydam, and they enjoyed thirty-seven years of marriage, community, travel, and family.
John will be greatly missed by all, but especially by his wife Peggy; his daughters Nicole, Ursula, and Lara; his grandchildren Elsa, Anya, Adrian, Damiano, Julien, Maya, Alfi, and Sufi; his sons-in-law Matteo and Aamir; his brothers, William and Michael (wife Petra), and his sisters Myra (husband Bob), Ursula (husband Chad), and Anne; and his sister-in-law Mary Suydam.