Throughout his adult life, Darwin Mathwig was committed to his family and community service, values he and his wife Nancy shared with their three children. A retired 20-year member of his local fire department, Darwin served on numerous boards and committees. But foremost in service was his dedication of 31 years to the Arlington Lions Club, during which he became governor of 63 clubs in south central Minnesota. When Darwin died at age 58 of pancreatic cancer, he donated his eyes to research. Nancy declared that "Darwin's life was one of service, and through the many lives he bettered, as well as the selfless donation of his eyes, Darwin still serves."

Darwin's Story

Darwin Mathwig was dedicated to his family and community service, values that he and his wife Nancy shared with their three children. Darwin easily made friends through his community, business, and volunteer activities. He touched many lives, often without realizing it.

Throughout his adult life, Darwin was committed to helping wherever there was a need, and his volunteerism is impressive. He served on the Arlington Baseball Board, the Arlington Area Chamber of Commerce, the Sibley Medical Center Foundation Board, and the Sibley East Music Boosters, among others.

Darwin was also a 17-year member of the Arlington Ambulance service, a retired 20-year member of the Arlington Fire Department, and a nine-year veteran of the Arlington City Council. But foremost in Darwin's life of service was his dedication of 31 years the Arlington Lions Club.

More than just a member, Darwin held many Lions club offices and was honored to serve as governor for the 63 clubs in south central Minnesota. "Darwin was always thinking of new ways to promote the community and the Lions organization," said Nancy. "As governor, Darwin's message was focused on the importance of each member's unique contribution, whether small or large, to the success of the club."

On July 4, 2010, Darwin lost his life to pancreatic cancer. He was 58. He donated his eyes to be used by researchers studying glaucoma, cornea dystrophy (deterioration) and fibrosis (thickening and scarring).

"Untold numbers can see today because of past contributions to research," said Nancy. "Darwin's life was one of service, and through the many lives he bettered, as well as the selfless donation of his eyes, Darwin still serves."