The torso of a man identified as a Mt. Vernon resident who disappeared 6 months ago after leaving a suicide note, was found floating early today in the L. & N. Pond, at the west edge of the city. Authorities said relatives have almost positively identified the body as Fred Matthews, who was 64 years old and resided at 1007 Conger Avenue when he disappeared on January 13, 1950.

The pond was dragged to no avail after his wife, Alma, found a note at their home which said, "My body will be in the L. & N. Pond." There was no explanation given in the note. The search for Mr. Matthew's body, by local firemen, state officers and volunteers, was carried on for some time.

Mr. Matthews, a Mt. Vernon car shops employee and trucker, had been in failing health prior to his disappearance. Near positive identification was made today by Don Morgan, 1117 south 13th Street, a nephew of Mr. Matthews. A tniss (I don't know this word - was optical read), of the type worn by Mr. Matthews, was found on the body, authorities said. Coroner Ben Roeder was conducting an inquest this afternoon.

The body was taken to the Pulley Funeral Home. Funeral Tuesday. Graveside services will be held at 11 a. m. Tuesday in Oakwood cemetery, with the Rev. Ace Summers officiating.

Mr. Matthews was born August 21, 1885 at Wayne City, the son of Henry and Nancy Taylor) Matthews.

Besides his wife, Alma, he is survived by two daughters: Wilma Patterson and Velma Matthews of St. Louis; two sisters, Bertha Gibson of St Louis and Stella Dugger of California; and an adopted brother, Adolph McCroskey of St. Louis.

Source: The Mt. Vernon Register-News
Date: Monday, July 16, 1956
Submitted by: Mary Zinzilieta