Maasa Spader Sioux Falls, South Dakota Death and Obituary – With heavy hearts, the family and friends of Maasa Spader announce her passing on the morning of March 12, 2025. Maasa, surrounded by her loved ones, peacefully passed away, embraced by the love and faith that defined her life. She was a cherished daughter, sister, and friend, and her passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew her.
Maasa’s life, though marked by significant health challenges, was defined by her strength, resilience, and boundless joy. From a young age, Maasa faced medical struggles, yet she never allowed these hardships to define her. Instead, she approached life with a fierce determination and a smile that could light up any room. Despite the limitations her health imposed, she found joy in every moment and remained an inspiration to those around her.
Her infectious enthusiasm for life was felt by all who crossed her path. Whether she was spending time with her family, fishing, hunting, or riding horses, Maasa always sought out experiences that would create lasting memories. Her love for her family was immeasurable. She deeply cherished her parents, Stephanie and Greg Pavlik, and her siblings, AJ, Catherine, and Teresa Spader. Her step-siblings, Stacy, Elliot, Alex, Sydney, and Trey Pavlik, were also central to her life. Maasa’s family was her greatest source of strength, and they rallied around her throughout her health struggles.
One of the places where Maasa’s spirit truly shined was at Scheels, where she worked in the café. Her colleagues there will always remember her as someone who could brighten their day, even during the busiest moments. Maasa’s infectious positivity, dedication, and love for people made her a beloved member of the Scheels family. She loved serving others and forming genuine connections with her co-workers and customers alike.
In February of 2025, Maasa’s health began to decline due to severe pancreatitis, which led to her hospitalization. Despite the difficult news, she remained strong and positive. On March 11, she was transferred to Ava’s Hospice House, where the family was advised to make the most of the time they had left. Maasa embraced this opportunity fully, sharing stories and laughs with her loved ones over her favorite foods and drinks, demonstrating the strength of her spirit even in her final hours. Just 18 hours later, Maasa passed away surrounded by family, love, and peace.
Maasa’s family expresses their deepest gratitude for the care and support she received from her medical team and the compassionate staff at Ava’s House. Their kindness, along with the unwavering love of Maasa’s family and friends, provided her with comfort during her final days.
She is survived by her mother, Stephanie Pavlik, and stepfather, Greg Pavlik; her siblings, AJ (Mackenzie), Catherine (Nate), and Teresa Spader; her step-siblings, Stacy (Brad), Elliot (Emily), Alex (Ashley), Sydney, and Trey (Lexi) Pavlik; her grandparents, Bill and Sue Peters, and Duane and Elaine Spader; and her beloved dog, Sadie. Maasa was also preceded in death by her father, Tony Spader; her sister, Rebekah Spader; and cousins JP Peters and Jared Reisch.
Maasa’s legacy is one of love, joy, and resilience. She taught all who knew her the importance of facing life’s challenges with grace, laughter, and an unwavering sense of purpose. Her infectious smile and vibrant spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 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, followed by a Liturgical Wake Service. In honor of Maasa’s love for casual comfort, the family invites guests to wear their favorite jeans, sweatshirts, and cowboy boots.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed to the Unbroken and Brave Foundation, an organization that supports individuals facing health challenges with the same resilience and bravery Maasa demonstrated throughout her life.
Though Maasa is no longer with us, her legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.