Obituary of Mary Katherine Sickoff

May 7, 1918 – Coleman, Alberta

October 9, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Mary K. Sickoff left us peacefully at the remarkable age of 106 years on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, after a long and fulfilling life.

Mary was born on May 7, 1918, in Coleman, AB. After losing her mother at a young age, she was raised by her hardworking father, Mike Mahovitch, alongside her brother and five sisters.

At 19, Mary met William “Billy” Sickoff at a community dance and they were later married in 1940. Together, they opened and ran a small hardware store in Bellevue, AB. They welcomed two daughters during their marriage, Elaine and Sylvia. Tragically, Mary was widowed at the early age of 48 years in 1966.

After the birth of her first grandchild, Mary moved to Calgary, AB, to live with her daughter Elaine, and son-in-law, Al Abrahamson. She resided with them for over 40 years, helping to raise her grandchildren and manage the household.

Mary was a beloved grandmother to Alanna (Ismo) Abrahamson-Haka of Switzerland, Arliss (Keith Bowers) Szysky of Calgary, Aaron (Michelle) Sikora of Sherwood Park, AB, and Michelle (John) Pollard of Edson, AB. She was also a caring and proud great-grandmother to Alessandra Haka, Saige Szysky, Sienna Szysky, Jackson Ty Sikora, and Kenna Sikora. Mary is survived by her son-in-law Al Abrahamson.

When asked on her 100^th birthday about the key to her longevity, Mary replied, “lots of hard work and family”. She will be most remembered for her amazing baking, her love of gardening, and always being there for her family.

Mary was predeceased by her husband, Billy Sickoff, her daughters Elaine Abrahamson, and Sylvia Sikora, and her extended family member, Douglas Abrahamson.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Salvation Army, 1731 29th Street SW Calgary, AB, T3C 1M6, online at www.salvationarmy.ca, or by phone 403-410-1112, continuing her tradition of helping and caring for others.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Mary’s family here.

In living memory of Mary Sickoff, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-276-2296.