Drexel Mathews, 85

Dec.7, 1936 — Feb. 19, 2022

Drexel Mathews, 85, was the loving husband of Marcella Mathews of Post Falls, Idaho, and father of five children and two step-children: Mark Mathews (wife Ima)) of Helix, Ore., DeLoy Marcyes (husband Curtis) of Renton, Wash., Les Mathews of Phoenix, Ariz.; Jenneal Russell of the United Kingdom; Drexel Garret Mathews of Rathdrum, Idaho; Nanci Kuchler-Anderson (husband Jason) of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; Heather Cordell (husband William) of Post Falls, Idaho. He was preceded in death by his father Amos Mathews and mother Ernestene. He is survived by his brother Farrel Mathews (wife Dee) of Lewiston, Idaho, and sister Gwen Schwane of Clarkston, Wash. Drexel was the grandfather to 10 grandchildren. He also had many loving in-laws, nephews, nieces and friends.

Drexel was born in Spokane, Wash., and grew up in Asotin, Wash. After graduation he traveled and worked in Alaska. He came back to the lower 48 and attended Eastern Washington University then enlisted in the United States Navy. During that time, he attended Rhode Island University. He attained his degree in political science. He served honorably for over 20 years in the United States Navy and retired as commander. Drexel was a pilot flying fixed wing planes and helicopters. He flew on and off aircraft carriers and helicopter rescue during Vietnam. He was commander of HSL-35 and member of HSL-31, HC-2, HT-8 and many other squadrons. He earned and was awarded numerous commendations, medals, ribbons and citations. After retiring he kept flying and was awarded the Wright Brothers “Master Pilot” Award from the Federal Aviation Administration for 50 years of safe aircraft flight operations.

Drexel was a collector of collections and had a beautiful classic car collection both completed and in process. He enjoyed going to car shows with his Indian motorcycle or 1950 Chevy convertible and winning several awards along the way.

Drexel was a faithful Christian and had a life full of experiences: son, brother, husband, father, working up to military leader, business owner, real estate agent, square dancer, musician, singer, friend, mentor and so much more. He had a witty dry sense of humor and would not miss the opportunity for a good pun.

Funeral services will be held at Yates Funeral Home, Hayden Chapel, 373 E. Hayden Avenue, Hayden, Idaho, at 1 p.m., Saturday, March 5, 2022. A graveside service with full Military Honors will follow at the Coeur d’Alene Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Sadly, Drexel lost his battle with Parkinson’s disease. The family would like to thank the staff at Ivy Court and Schneidmiller Hospice House for their care and compassion.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Drexel’s online memorial at yatesfuneralhomes.com and sign his guest book.