John Carstens Matthews ’39

John died Jan. 10, 2002, at home in West Caldwell, N.J. He had been living there in a continuing care retirement community for the past three years.

After graduating with a degree in chemical engineering, John joined Schering-Plough in 1940 and there spent his entire career before retiring in 1982. The only exception was his active duty with the Naval Reserve from 1942-45, serving as a lieutenant and chief engineer on destroyers in the American, European, and Pacific areas.

Even after retirement he continued as a consulting engineer at Schering. He was a trustee of First Presbyterian Church of Caldwell, supported Family Service of West Essex, and served as treasurer of the local chapter of American Field Service.

John and Catherine Kaufmann were married in 1942. She survives, as do their three daughters, Barbara, Jane, and Lynne, and three grandchildren.

At a memorial service for John, Barbara cited his generosity and how he taught them to extend their caring beyond family to the community. Joining them in gratitude for his life well lived, we offer our sincere sympathy.

The Class of 1939