Matthew Thankachen

Thankachen Mathew Kandankumarathu, known to many as Mathew Thankachen, was a man of extraordinary compassion and thoughtfulness. Born on April 26, 1940, in Nellikamon Ranny, Kerala, India, Matthew's journey of life was a testament to his unwavering faith and his determination to make the world a better place. His life's journey came to a peaceful close on October 7, 2023, in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, where he had made his home.

Mathew's life was characterized by a remarkable blend of humility and strength. He was a dedicated worker, serving his entire career in Military Engineering Services. His natural aptitude for problem-solving and his ability to make difficult decisions with grace and confidence were hallmarks of his professional life. However, it was his deep-seated kindness that truly defined him. Mathew's garden was always blooming, a testament to his nurturing spirit. He had a profound love for traveling, exploring diverse cultures, and connecting with people from all walks of life. A devout member of The Pentecostal Mission, Mathew was deeply involved in church activities and often extended his hand to help those seeking employment. As stated in 1 Peter 4:10, "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." Mathew truly embodied this scripture.

Mathew leaves behind a loving family: his sons, James Mathew and wife, Rachel Mathew, John Mathew, and his daughter Jolly Mathew and husband, Sam Mathew. He is also survived by his brother, George Mathew as well as his grandchildren, Hannah James, Joel James Mathew, Timothy John, Bettina John, Titus John, Justin Sam, and Jerin Sam. Mathew was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Annamma Thankachen, his parents, Mathew and Mariamma Kandankumarathu, and his siblings Mariamma Mathew, Thomas Mathew, Abraham Mathew, and Papachan Mathew. His absence will be deeply felt, but his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 20, 2023, at 6:00-8:00pm CDT at the Sand Springs United Methodist Church, 319 N Main Street, Sand Springs, Oklahoma. A service to celebrate Mathew's life will take place on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 9:30-11:30am CDT at Sand Springs United Methodist Church, 319 N. Main Street, Sand Springs, Oklahoma. Interment Service at Woodland Memorial Park Cemetery, 1200 N. Cleveland Ave, Sand Springs, OK 74063

We invite all who knew Mathew to share their memories of him and upload photos to his memorial page, so we may all remember the wonderful, compassionate man he was.