Obituary of Dr. Elmer Leslie Matyas

Dr. Elmer Leslie Matyas, PhD, P. Eng., Professor Emeritus

June 28, 1932 – March 31, 2019

After a long battle with Parkinson’s disease and peripheral neuropathy, Dr. Elmer Leslie Matyas passed away peacefully at 86 years of age on Sunday, March 31, 2019 in Waterloo, Ontario.

El obtained a Bachelor of Science degree specializing in Civil Engineering from the University of Toronto in 1954. With a strong desire for further education farther afield, he obtained a PhD in 1963 from Imperial College London. He began his teaching career as an Assistant Professor at Carleton University that same year, and then took a position with the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Waterloo in 1965 — specializing in soil mechanics and foundation engineering. He retired in 1996. During his sabbaticals, he consulted with Acres International, EBA Engineering, and Golder Associates. Dr. Matyas authored many publications, including those for the Canadian Geotechnical Society and presented papers at international conferences in Hong Kong, Moscow, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, and San Francisco.

El is survived by his daughter Nancy Estey (Rob) of Toronto and grandchildren Spencer and Charlotte; and his son Stephen of Waterloo and granddaughter Alexandra. He is also survived by his twin brother Alfred (Yvonne dec’d). El is predeceased by his loving wife Violet Ella (nee Heney) with whom he had celebrated 63 years of marriage. El was a beloved Uncle to Lori, Jim, Cathy and John.

El will be remembered for his perseverance, being helpful to others, and admirable teaching qualities. His passions included maintaining his property in the country, striving for a low handicap in golf at Dundee Country Club, and perfecting his skills at stained glass. He was a keen supporter of the arts as a regular subscriber to the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony and Stratford Festival.

Throughout his life, El was surrounded by loving family, friends and colleagues. His family is grateful for all your love and support. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the doctors and staff at Parkwood Mennonite Home.

Cremation has taken place. Friends and family are invited to drop in for a get together between 1 pm and 4 pm on Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at Parkwood Mennonite Home, 726 New Hampshire St., Waterloo ON, N2K 4M1. To respect El’s wishes, there will not be a formal service. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Dr. Elmer Leslie Matyas’ honour to the University of Waterloo, Faculty of Engineering (www.uwaterloo.ca/support) or Parkinson Canada (www.parkinson.ca). Memories, tributes and donations may be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home (www.erbgood.com) or 519-745-8445.

El leaves us with a line from one of his poems, which were often written while at sea with Vi:

“Continue to live harmoniously in good health, body and mind.”