Stacia Matukas

Stacia Matukas , 86 SCARBOROUGH -- Stacia Matukas of Scarborough died on Sept 12, 2008 following a long illness. Her son and only child Joe was by her side. 'Everyday is a gift' characterized her approach to life. Of Polish descent, and one of five children, Stacia was born on Nov. 15, 1921 in Providence, R.I., the daughter of Jaroslaw and Aleksandra Lenkewicz. She was proud of her Polish heritage, speaking the language and enjoying Polish cooking--two important traditions she shared with her son. Stacia married Joseph Matukas, whom she loved with all her heart, on August 16, 1947. They were married for 21 years before Joe's death in 1968. In the 40 years before her own death, Stacia and son Joe became an especially close team. 'She was supportive, no matter what-my biggest fan,' Joe remembers. Stacia moved to Scarborough 10 years ago to be closer to her son, living in her own condo, making many friends. A room in Stacia's condo was dedicated to plants and flowers, a testimony to her love of nature and all things beautiful. Stacia especially loved preparing for and celebrating Christmas. 'She started talking about it and planning in July!' She was a woman who valued her independence, making friends wherever she went. Stacia could always find something good in everyone--she truly enjoyed and cared about people, with a gift for knowing what would help them feel good about themselves. Her easy smile or Stacia Matukas words of encouragement made people feel good inside. She saw the beauty in others. She will be deeply missed by her son and all who loved her. Stacia is survived by her son Joseph P. Matukas; her brother Joseph Lenkewicz and his wife Claire; and their three children; as well as many other nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister-in-law BerthaCavolowsky of Dedham, Mass, and Jean Lenkewicz of Cumberland, R.I. Visiting hours will be 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 16 at the Conroy-Tully Crawford South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland, and 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 17 at the Russell J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, 331 Smith Street, Providence, Rhode Island. A 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, Sept. 18 at St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, One Saint Paul Place, Cranston, R.I. Interment will follow in St. Ann's Cemetery, Cranston, R.I, beside her husband. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ctcrawford.com. Donations may be made to: The American Cancer Society New England Division One Main Street, Suite 300 Topsham, Maine 04086