Evonna Mathis nee Evanoff

MATHIS, Evonna (nee Evanoff)

It is with great sadness that Evonna’s family acknowledges her passing on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. She died peacefully in her sleep at NHS-Niagara Falls Site at the age of 81 years. She was likely one of the longest surviving victims of the 1950’s polio epidemic in Canada.

Evonna Evanoff was born at home - 369 Oak Avenue, Timmins, Ontario - on November 12, 1943 to Helen & John Evanoff - where she was raised. She attended Mattagami Public School, Central School and TH&VS.

Her mother, Helen Homolovich (nee Berzinski), passed away on April 27, 2020 - Helen Evanoff Keeper Memorial. Her father, John Evanoff (Stanchoff), died on March 20, 1979. They are buried together in the Timmins Cemetery - Section R, Row 11, Plot 460 (Poppy Lane/Tulip Lane). Her grandparents (Stanchoffs) rest in peace in the Greek Orthodox Cemetery in Timmins. Evonna’s father was a goldminer at the Buffalo Ankerite Mine and helped clear the land in Timmins where several main streets are now located. He was also the owner and operator of Johnny's Fries and often sold those great fries at many sporting events at the Hollinger Park and the McIntyre Arena.

Evonna was predeceased by her devoted partner, Larry Haliday, on November 19, 2019, her brother, Nicholas and her sister, Victoria Sandrelli. She also loved animals and cherished her dog, Nicky, who stared lovingly at her - prior to passing away this past year.

She is survived by her children, Clarke Mathis, Robin Markham and his partner, Sherri, Ruthann Clayton, several grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and her sister, Anne Evanoff.

Growing up, Evonna spent many summers at Northwood Crippled Children’s Camp on Lake Sesekinika in Ontario which closed its doors after nearly 60 years in 2022. She always spoke positively about her experiences at Northwood and shared that she wept when the summer was over and she had to return home. It was a camp that made a positive difference in her life and helped create a warrior spirit within her.

Evonna was adept at learning to cope with the effects of polio - a disease that did not stop her from enjoying and celebrating life. She was a very talented person who had a great singing voice, played the piano and the mandolin. She also created fabulous art work. She was employed as a private secretary at Texas Gulf - Kidd Creek Mine for many years and was well known for a high degree of competency and intelligence. Evonna also served as an employee for 15 years at the Toronto Engineering Society AES where she was appreciated and admired for her higher order thinking skills and her sense of humour. 

An internment took place at Fairview Cemetery, 4501 Stanley Avenue in Niagara Falls - Section TT Plot: #883 - on April 12, 2025 where Evonna was laid to rest with her beloved partner, Larry Haliday. They were Forever Friends. 

Please leave a tribute below - fond memories welcomed. 

Memorial donations to Easter Seals Canada would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Considerate Cremation & Burial Services, 26 Nihan Drive, St. Catharines (Lake Street & Scott Street), 289-362-1144.