Skaidrite Mateus

Mateus, Skaidrite "Skai" Portage, Michigan Skaidrite "Skai" Mateus, of Portage, passed away on February 13, 2022 with her family at the bedside. She was born on October 7, 1941, in Latvia, the daughter of Karlis and Albina (Malcans) Valteris. Skai immigrated to the US in 1949, after spending time in a displaced person's camp in Germany with her parents and her sister. Following high school, Skai followed her dream and became a nurse. Compassion came easily. Most of her career was spent in the operating room, her passion. Before retiring, she worked with the homeless and indigent population that suffered with mental illness. She was always there for them with a warm hug and would often share a cigarette while listening to their stories. Her advocacy for those that were less fortunate was amazing. As a single parent, Skai ensured that her children knew the meaning of unconditional love and hard work. She made sure that Latvian traditions were embraced and that the Latvian language was spoken when possible. Of course, she did hear plenty of grumbles from her children in the younger days, when they had to rise early on Saturday mornings to attend Latvian school. Skai also made sure that the family was able to travel together to Latvia to meet relatives and learn more about the family heritage. The laughs and memories during the trip will be cherished forever. Skai liked getting her hands dirty in the garden and lovingly cared for the flowers that her mother had planted years before. Certainly can't forget her talking about going to Curves and how proud she was for never missing a workout. Her grandsons meant the world to her. Listening to their songs and riddles always made her smile. Their drawings filled her house. The biggest smiles came when she heard their little voices yell out for "Omi". Skai's feisty attitude touched many. She was always able to find the bright side of things and would always share words of encouragement. She was quick to share a smile and her beautiful blue eyes would warm any heart. The love she had was endless and she gave selflessly. Her strong love, beautiful smile and gentle touch will be with us forever. Mes tevi milam. Vienmer. Vieglas smiltes. Her family includes her children, Anita Mateus (Pepper Branson), Mark (Kimberly) Mateus and 2 grandsons (Spencer Karlis and Lochlin Skai). She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Laima Plostnieks. Following her wishes, cremation has taken place. A private gathering will be held in the spring. Please visit Skai's personalized online guestbook at https://www.langelands.com