DR. JOHN MATAS

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DR. JOHN MATAS With deep sadness the family announces the passing of Dr. John Matas on January 30, 2005. Born in Winnipeg in 1909, John grew up on Euclid Ave. After attending medical school at the University of Manitoba, he served his country as a psychiatrist in the Second World War from 1941-1946. Stationed in India and Burma, attached to the Royal Army Medical Corps, he was mentioned in dispatches for gallantry. During the war he met the love of his life, Renee, to whom he was married for 58 years. After the war, John practiced psychiatry at Deer Lodge and then at St. Boniface Hospital, where he was Chief of Psychiatry. He brought numerous innovations in psychiatry to Manitoba including development of a new psychiatric unit at St. Boniface, development of the first chemical dependency program in Manitoba, and creation of the hypnosis society. In 1964, his contributions were recognized by his peers in his elevation to Fellowship in the American Psychiatric Association. On his retirement, he was honoured with a special award for service at the University of Manitoba, and an auditorium was dedicated in his name in the psychiatry building at St. Boniface Hospital. His interest in and dedication to his patients was unsurpassed. John will always be remembered for his love of learning; his warmth, kindness, and caring; and for his devotion to his family. Funeral services were held January 31 and the interment was at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 02, 2005