PORTLAND — Arthur E. Mathews, 72, of Portland, died unexpectedly on Thursday, July 21, 2011, at his residence.

He was born in Portland, the son of Everett and Margaret Beking Mathews, where he attended local schools. At age 17, Arthur enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving during the Korean Conflict.

Arthur married the love of his life Jeanne Donna (Corbeau) on June 13, 1959, and shared 52 wonderful years.

He was employed for 35 years with State Paper Company, and he also worked at Botto’s Bakery, where he enjoyed meeting customers and making many friends. He enjoyed having coffee with his brother Everett “Bob” Mathews, laughing and telling a few jokes with him.

Arthur loved spending quality time with his family especially traveling to Bangor, taking rides and doing picnics. Family was very important to him. He also enjoyed making trips to Foxwoods.

He was a communicant of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and a member of the Portland Lodge of Elks.

Arthur was predeceased by his brother, Everett “Bob” Mathews; and his two sisters, Mary Mathews and Ida Cline.

Besides his loving wife, he leaves a son, Michael of Windham; two daughters, Pamela Cartonio of West Baldwin and Terry York of Portland; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Visitation was held on Monday, July 25, 2011, at Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home, 199 Woodford Street, Portland. Prayers were recited on Tuesday, July 26, 2011, at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Interment followed in New Calvary Cemetery, South Portland. Please visit www.jonesrichandhutchins.com for additional information and to sign Arthur’s guestbook.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to: The American Heart Association, 51 U.S. Rt. #1, Suite M, Scarborough, ME 04074.