Mary-Anne Matkowski (Birch)

With love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Mary-Anne Matkowski (Birch) on October 8, 2025, at the age of 76, after a 4-month courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Mary-Anne was born in Saskatchewan on January 16, 1949, and raised in Saskatoon by her foster parents, Alex and Eva Greig. In her Immediate family, she is survived by her sister Sharon, brothers Brad, Doug, and Brian Matkowski, and her honorary family, the Dixons. She was predeceased by her maternal mother Helen Matkowski (Habetler), sisters Diane and Colleen, and brothers Ken and Brent, and her foster parents, Alex and Eva Greig, and her foster brothers Herold, Ron, and Don Perry.

In Saskatoon, Mary-Anne met Tom Smith, and together they shared a deep love for their three cherished children TJ, Scott & Carrie Ann. Though their paths went separate ways, their love remained constant for the children. Her family continued to grow, and she took immense pride in her Grandchildren, Taegan, Caedence, Beckett, Kailey, Kennedy, Zachary, Cody, Cole, Cale, - in addition Kayla, Jonny, MaryJo, and Jordan who also joined her family of Grandchildren.

Her Branches grew in her tree of life, with the blessings of Great-Grandchildren, Payton, Walker, and Clovey, and in addition Natalina, Mia, Anna and Liam also joined her family of littles.

Mary-Anne's love for glamour and beauty blossomed early in life. She discovered her true passion in the art of hairstyling and esthetics. With natural talent and a heart for helping others feel their best, she built a lifelong career dedicated to helping others feel their best which led her to establish "Tootsie Care", a heartfelt business devoted to uplifting seniors by providing in-home pedicures, manicures, and haircuts. Through her gentle touch and radiant smile, Mary-Anne brought dignity, joy, and meaningful connection to everyone she served.

Her love for dancing and singing was infectious. Mary-Anne even lit up the stage for several years, captivating audiences with her beautiful voice and adoring energy. She also served as a Building Manager for many years, consistently ensuring high-quality care and comfort for both tenants and property owners creating many lifelong friends.

Mary-Anne led with love and kindness, wrapping everyone in the most comforting hugs-always paired with her famous back scratches. But all the little ones closest to her will forever cherish the gentle tickles on their backs and arms, delivered with her very warm hands that radiated safety and comfort. As she softly sang "Tiny Bubbles" with a smile, her touch and voice created a moment of peace and connection that will live on in the hearts of all who experienced it.

Her heart was devoted to her family and friends. Whenever a friend was unwell, Mary-Anne made it a priority to spread the word, ensuring that no one faced hardship alone and that a circle of love and support was always close by. She never stopped thinking of others, even in her final moments.

Though she faced many illnesses throughout her life, they never defined her. She remained a humble soul, radiating love and light to everyone she met.

Mary-Anne's legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the joy she spread, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Service of Remembrance will be held on Saturday, November 1, at 2:00 p.m. at Saskatoon Funeral Home, 338 Fourth Avenue North. There will be no viewing as per her request.

Mary-Anne's inurnment will take place at a later date at The Columbarium at St. John's Cathedral, 816 Spadina Crescent East, Saskatoon.