Mary Anna Bird Matern, 58 of Chesterton, IN, passed away Friday, May 1, 2026. She was born May 3, 1967, in Valparaiso, IN, to the late Charles E. “Skip” Bird and Hannah E. (Platts) Bird. Mary graduated from Valparaiso High School, Class of 1985, and received her bachelor’s degree in art history and photography from Valparaiso University. She made her career as a sound designer and a photographer throughout Northwest Indiana. The creativity and talent Mary displayed during her career earned her major awards in the industry, including best sound designer. Her second home was the Chicago Street Theater in downtown Valparaiso, where she spent countless hours working on productions with her closest friends. When she wasn’t at work or the theater, Mary could be found enjoying the company of “Tabby Nation” (her 4 cats): Griffin, Clarence, George, and Giuseppe Martini. Mary also loved spending time with her family, especially her beloved niece and nephews. To describe Mary, her family often used the words of Shakespeare, “Though she be but little, she is fierce.” Her spicy personality, passionate determination, and fun sense of humor will live on in the hearts of all who knew Mary. She will be deeply missed.
On May 8, 2016, Mary married Daniel Matern, who preceded her in death in 2020. She is survived by her sister, Patty Bird of Kapaau, HI; niece and nephews: Sydney, Logan, and Blake; uncles, Bobby Bird and David Platts; and a host of loving friends who became Mary’s chosen family.
A celebration of Mary’s life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the GoFundMe.
