Patricia Anne Matthews (née Polupski) died on August 26, 2026, at the age of 77. Born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, on January 12, 1949, she built a life centred on family, faith, learning and service. This Patricia Anne Matthews obituary honours the kindness and generosity she shared with her community.
Family and community
Patricia, known as Pat, was predeceased by her husband Leslie Matthews and her parents, Peter and Irene Polupski. She was also predeceased by Jana Dodd-Polupski, the wife of her brother Larry; Linda Walters, the wife of her brother-in-law John; and her brother-in-law Peter Matthews.
She is lovingly remembered by her children, Denise (Terry) Syms and Christopher Matthews; grandchildren Matthew Syms, Victoria Syms (Jason Doiron), Felicity Matthews, Trinity Matthews and Maranda Syms; and great-grandson Logan. She also leaves her brothers Kenneth, Larry and Lorne Polupski; in-laws Bob (Wendy) Matthews, Penny (Jonathon) Tucker and John Walters; and their families.
As the eldest of four children, Pat took great pride in her three younger brothers. Her instinct for teaching appeared early through Sunday school and remained part of her life. She ran an accounting business, retired after many years with Beck’s Printing, and taught part-time at Mohawk College.
Pat was devoted to St. Mary’s Church and served for 25 years with its Catholic Women’s League council, including in executive roles. She also participated in the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and a women’s sisterhood at St. Pius X Church. Family cruises brought her cherished memories, while her dog Misha offered treasured companionship.
Funeral service
A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026, at St. Mary’s Church, 133 Murray Street, Brantford, Ontario. Instead of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society.
