Arnold Mathers from Exeter, Ontario, quietly passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 87 years old. Surrounded by his family, he moved on with a thankful heart and no regrets.
He is survived by his devoted wife of sixty-seven years, Ila. Together they proudly raised their kids Dwayne (Debbie), Lorrie (Nathalie), and Suzanne (Brian). Arnold and Ila were lucky to have nine grandchildren who filled his life with happiness. Dwayne’s children are Brent (Amanda), Blake (Alexandra), and Kyle (Natalie). Lorrie’s children include Melanie (Jesse), Sarah, and Jonathan; while Suzanne’s kids are Justin (Sara), Brock (Aliesha), and Drew (Hailey). He was also a proud great-grandfather to seven great-grandkids: Adia, Adeline, Harrison, and Keith from Brent and Amanda; Emmaline and Elowyn from Blake and Alexandra; plus Scottie from Justin and Sara.
Arnold spent most of his career in education. After finishing Wingham High School and Stratford Teachers’ College, he started teaching in a small rural school near Tiverton. He then married Ila Pengelly before moving to Toronto where he taught for five years. In 1964, after earning his BA at Western University, the family settled in Exeter. There Arnold served as principal at Usborne Central School for two years followed by eighteen years at Huron Centennial School in Brucefield. He wrapped up his career working with the Huron County Board of Education.
Even though he was deeply involved in education, Arnold never forgot his farming roots in Huron County. With Ila and their kids alongside him, they ran a farm raising beef cattle, growing crops for sale, plus running a Christmas tree farm. Their renovated log house close to Wingham became a popular spot for family get-togethers and celebrations.
Arnold wasn’t one to just sit around waiting-he was always ahead of the game whether organizing parties or planning trips with the family. He took on challenges both at work and within the community by helping neighbors out, volunteering at church events, and even building homes for Habitat for Humanity.
A good sense of humor was key for Arnold. He loved sharing jokes or funny stories – many were published in The Rural Voice before being collected into books.
Traveling was another joy Arnold shared with Ila as they explored over fifty countries together. They spent many winters down in Florida enjoying friends and various activities there. And yes – Arn really enjoyed golfing too.
People will remember Arnold as a dedicated husband; caring dad; grandpa; great-grandpa; respected teacher; loyal friend; keen traveler-and above all else-for how much he loved his family.
The visitation will take place Sunday afternoon March 22nd from 1 – 3 PM at Haskett Funeral Home located at 456 Main Street South in EXETER followed by a celebration of life service starting promptly at 3 PM. A spring burial will happen later with just close family members present at Brandon Cemetery near Belgrave.
You can watch the service live or whenever it suits you via www. facebook. com/haskettfh
If you wish to honor Arnold’s memory without sending flowers please consider donating instead to Habitat for Humanity Huron County or the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation-South Huron Trail branch-the family truly appreciates your kindness during this time.
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