Mara (Mania) Lewkowicz (née Basis-Pillar)

One month before her 102nd birthday, Mara sadly passed away on November 7, 2025.

The matriarch of her adoring family, she will be deeply missed by her daughters, Ann and Freda, her son-in-law Peter, her grandchildren Joey (Maggie), Sarah (Scott), and the late Cary (Kris), and her great-grandchildren Ethan (Sarah), Ava, Harrison, Maya, and Rory. She is predeceased by Marek, her husband of 74 years. 

Mara was a proud Odessan who survived the Holocaust by fleeing to Balkhash, Kazakhstan, thanks to the foresight and resourcefulness of her sister Luba. There, she met Marek and they welcomed their first daughter. In their attempt to build a life outside of Europe, the young family fled on foot, hiked through mountains, bribed smugglers, and were even arrested. After their release, they lived in displaced persons camps in Germany before coming to Canada in 1948 through the Tailor Project. In Montreal, they welcomed their second daughter and created a beautiful life with their family and large circle of lifelong friends.

Mara loved trips to Florida, going on cruises, socializing at the Cavendish Mall, cooking for her family, and spoiling her grandchildren. She had a tremendous sense of humour, style, and courage. She’ll forever be remembered for her hearty laugh, incredible wit, outspoken nature, and memorable cooking skills. From chocolate cake to kreplach, Mara touched all those she loved through her food. The beautiful home and family that she built stands as a symbol of her undeniable love and resilience. 

The family wishes to thank the fourth-floor staff, especially Susan De Los Reyes, at Jewish Eldercare's Hope Pavilion for their outstanding care and kindness, and her wonderful caregiver,Tessa.

Funeral service from Paperman & Sons, 3888 Jean Talon St. W., on Monday, November 10 at 1:00 p.m. Burial at the Farband Labour Organization Cemetery, de la Savane. Shiva at Freda’s home Monday following burial until 5:00 p.m. and from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m, Tuesday through Thursday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Donations in Mara’s memory may be made to the Montreal Holocaust Museum, (514) 345-2605, or click here, where her recorded testimony and family photos are preserved in perpetuity.