Iype Mathai Sr (Mathaichen, 7)

Kurian Iype (Jr)’s second son, Mathai was born in 1885. Mathai’s mother died when he was one and a half years old. Therefore, he was raised under the care and protection of his father and grandmother. When he was only 11 years old, he married Akkamma, the elder daughter of Puthuppally Karottu Anthrayose, who was 10 years old then. Mrs. Akkamma is Chief Minister Oommen Chandy’s paternal mother’s sister. Thus, his grandmother’s dream of eternal profit was fulfilled. The grandmother passed away the very next year. Mathai, who had only a primary education, learned to compose by reading the book of Psalms by himself. After that, he gained proficiency in the language by reading books. It was Mathai, who first wrote the history of Puthenpurackal family in 1954. He well cultivated his family properties and lands inherited by his wife. He actively participated in the construction of Kallarackal St. Mary’s church. He served as the President of the Public Library at Vettathukavala, for some period. Honesty, benevolence and efficiency were his characteristics. He was concerned with providing financial assistance and advice to many families during their financial crisis. They had sons named Andrew, Iype, Kurian, Chandy, Mathai & George. He showed special skill in building houses, according to his own plan, for his four sons. Mathai died on 10^th October 1961 at the age of 76. Akkamma died on 30^th May 1947 at the age of 58. Both were cremated at Puthuppally Nilackal Orthodox church.