Maasa Spader Sioux Falls, South Dakota Obituary, Death: With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we mourn the passing of Maasa Spader, who was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus on Wednesday morning, March 12, 2025, surrounded by her family. Maasa’s life was a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and love. Despite facing many health challenges throughout her life, she consistently lived with unrelenting passion, strength, and joy, touching the lives of everyone who knew her.
Her family, friends, co-workers, and all those fortunate enough to cross her path have lost a beloved soul who illuminated every room with her warmth and infectious spirit. Maasa’s journey was not an easy one. She faced medical struggles from a young age, but she never let these challenges define her. Instead, she met every hardship with a smile, embracing life with a fierceness and determination that left an indelible impression on those around her. Those who knew her admired her strength, but it was her ability to find joy in the smallest moments that truly set her apart.
She was never one to shy away from an adventure, whether it was fishing, hunting, riding horses, or simply spending time with her family. Though her medical fragility limited some of her activities, Maasa’s family ensured she was included in as many experiences as possible. Every moment spent together, no matter how small, became a cherished memory. Maasa’s love for her family was immeasurable. She cherished her siblings and found great joy in spending time with them, whether it was around the dinner table or on a weekend outing.
Her heart was full of love for her mother, Stephanie Pavlik, and stepfather, Greg Pavlik, who were a constant source of support and strength throughout her life. She shared a close bond with her siblings—AJ (Mackenzie) Spader, Catherine (Nate Grotewold) Spader, and Teresa Spader—and her step-siblings, Stacy (Brad) Maxon, Elliot (Emily) Pavlik, Alex (Ashley) Pavlik, Sydney Pavlik, and Trey (Lexi Kingery) Pavlik. Her family was her foundation, and she loved them with all her heart.
One of the greatest joys of Maasa’s life was her work at Scheels, where she thrived and found a sense of belonging. Maasa worked in the café, and it was there that her positive attitude and infectious enthusiasm made a lasting impact on everyone who crossed her path. Whether she was on the clock or off, Maasa always found ways to connect with her co-workers, who she considered friends. Scheels became her happy place, where she found joy in serving others and cultivating relationships. Her colleagues often remarked on her ability to brighten their day, to make them feel seen and valued, and to bring joy even during the busiest moments.
In February of this year, Maasa’s health began to decline rapidly due to severe pancreatitis, and she was hospitalized. Her family faced the news with hope and faith, but on March 11th, she was admitted to Ava’s Hospice House, where the family was told that it was not a place to plan for death, but rather a place to make the most of the time remaining. Maasa embraced this fully, and within hours of her arrival, she had surrounded herself with loved ones, sharing laughs and stories over taco pizza and Mike’s Hard Lemonade. Her spirit was undiminished, and her joy remained as vibrant as ever.
Sadly, Maasa’s time in this world came to a close less than 18 hours later. Surrounded by family, extended family, and clergy, Maasa passed away, but her family remains deeply grateful for the time they had with her. Her passing has left an irreplaceable void in their hearts, but they find solace in knowing that she was able to live her final hours surrounded by love and in peace.
The family is deeply grateful for the exceptional care Maasa received from her medical team, many of whom became friends and continued to check on her even after their shifts ended. They also thank the compassionate staff at Ava’s House, who provided comfort and dignity during Maasa’s final hours. Maasa’s family appreciates all the kindness, support, and love they have received during this difficult time and acknowledges the profound impact that Maasa had on all those who knew her.
Maasa is survived by her loving mother, Stephanie (Spader) Pavlik and stepfather, Greg Pavlik; her siblings, AJ (Mackenzie) Spader, Catherine (Nate Grotewold) Spader, and Teresa Spader; her step-siblings, Stacy (Brad) Maxon, Elliot (Emily) Pavlik, Alex (Ashley) Pavlik, Sydney Pavlik, and Trey (Lexi Kingery) Pavlik; her grandparents, Bill and Sue Peters and Duane and Elaine Spader, all of Sioux Falls; and her beloved dog, Sadie. She also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will forever treasure her memory.
Maasa was preceded in death by her father, Tony Spader; her sister, Rebekah Spader; and her cousins, JP Peters and Jared Reisch. These are losses that Maasa’s family has carried with them throughout her life, and while their pain is deep, they take comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with those who have gone before her.
Maasa’s legacy is one of love, joy, and resilience. She taught us all how to face adversity with grace, how to find joy in every moment, and how to be present for one another in times of need. She showed us the importance of family, of showing up for each other, and of creating lasting memories. Her infectious smile and vibrant spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her, and she will never be forgotten.
Maasa’s family invites all those who loved her to join them for a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church in Sioux Falls. A visitation will take place on Monday, March 17, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at George Boom Funeral Home & On-Site Crematory, with a Liturgical Wake Service following the visitation. In honor of Maasa’s love for casual comfort, the family requests that guests wear their favorite jeans and sweatshirts—and if you have cowboy boots, please wear them!
In lieu of flowers, Maasa’s family requests that memorials be directed to the Unbroken and Brave Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing support and resources for those who face health challenges with the same bravery and resilience that Maasa displayed throughout her life. As we say goodbye to Maasa, we hold on to the love, laughter, and joy she brought into our lives. Her legacy will live on through the stories we share, the lessons she taught us, and the love she gave so freely.
