Passed away peacefully on July 21, 2021, at Algonquin Grace Residential Hospice, in her 81st year. Beloved wife of the late Thomas Mataija. Dear mother of James, Steven (Wendy), and Lisa (Roger). Cherished Baka (grandmother) of Maximilian, Mya, and Isabella. Loving sister of Frank (Tanya), Anna, and the late Nevenka.

Mary was born on August 20, 1939, in Plesivica, Croatia (then Yugoslavia). These were difficult times, as WWII was about to begin. In later years, she worked as a nanny and also assisted the local midwife which is something that gave her great joy. Mary met her future husband, Tom, while he was travelling in Croatia. She immigrated to Canada, in 1966, where they married a few days later.

She lived the rest of her life, in Bracebridge, in the same home where everyone was always welcome. She cooked big meals and would make sure no one left her home hungry. She worked many years as a housekeeper at a local resort. She loved travelling and made many trips with dad and friends to the states for Croatian festivals and just pleasure. Mary loved children and doted on her grandkids and was always there to help take care of them. She was truly a people person, she loved seeing people, talking to people, and listening to their life stories.

Mary was a kind and genuine person, and she will be fondly remembered for the hospitality she showed everyone in her home.

We will miss her greatly.

The family received family and friends on Saturday, July 24, 2021 from 2 - 4pm & 6 - 8 pm, at Reynolds Funeral Home. A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, August 6, 2021, at 11am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, in Bracebridge. A public reception will follow, at Mary’s House, at 12noon. Due to restrictions, all guests must RSVP for the Graveside, please RSVP below.  

In memory, donations may be made to South Muskoka Memorial Hospital, or to the Algonquin Grace Hospice and may be arranged through Reynolds Funeral Home. 

 

Visitations are conducted on a schedule and by appointment only. Groups of 25 will be permitted to visit with the family during the following reserved times:

2:00 - 2:30pm, 2:45 - 3:15pm, and 3:30 - 4:00pm

6:00 - 6:30pm, 6:45 - 7:15pm, and 7:30 - 8:00pm

You must either reserve your time online through our website by clicking the 'RSVP' button below next to each visitation time period, or funeral, or call Reynolds Funeral Home (705-645-2257) to reserve your time. Please be sure to list all names of those attending in your party.

 

A private family Graveside Service will be held.