Mr. Ray E. Mathews, age 67, of Des Moines, IA, passed away on Thursday, October 13, 2016 in Metropolis, IL. He was born on September 1, 1949 to Margaret Wepel and married Louise Dalrymple on April 5, 1971. No services will be held at Ray's request. Mr. Mathews was a retired truck driver for Des Moines Asphalt and Paving and an Army Veteran. He was a member of the American Legion Baldwin-Patterson Post 274, where he was proud to be a part of the honor guard and color guard, and also a member of the 40/8. Ray is survived by his wife of 45 ½ years, Louise (Dalrymple) Mathews of Des Moines, IA; two sons, Duane Lee Mathews (Connie) of Huxley, IA and Daniel Ray Mathews (Melissia) of Runnells, IA; his mother, Margaret (Wepel) Lash of Boone, IA; 8 grandchildren; 1 great grandchild; one sister, Marlene Camp (Don) of Boone, IA; two brothers, Lyle Mathews (Lucille) of AR and Larry Mathews (Lola) of Perry, IA; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one half sister, Joyce Lash and one half brother, John Lash. Expressions of sympathy may be given to the American Legion Baldwin-Patterson Post 274, 2211 East 42nd St. Des Moines, IA 50317. Aikins-Farmer Funeral Home in Metropolis, IL was in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.aikinsfarmer-millerfh.com.