Beatrice June ‘Bea’ (Mattson) Matthews

She was born June 15, 1938, in Negaunee, Michigan to her cherished parents, William and Esther (Anderson) Mattson.

Beatrice’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and unwavering faith. She graduated from Negaunee High School in 1956, where she found her passion for education and community service. Throughout her life, Bea was known for her strong work ethic, having spent several years as a bank teller at Miners First National Bank of Negaunee and later taking on the role of bookkeeper for Mattson Arctic Cat Suzuki. Her dedication extended beyond her professional life; she was a devoted member of Bethany Lutheran Church and volunteered her time and talents to help others in need.

On June 25, 1988, Beatrice married Paul Matthews, creating a warm and loving partnership that enriched both of their lives. Bea’s family was her pride and joy. She was her son’s biggest supporter, and he will miss their daily calls, letters of support and guidance. She is survived by her supportive husband, Paul Matthews; her son, James (Ellen) Lahtinen; three cherished grandchildren: Patrick Lahtinen, Brittany (Brian) Mobley, and Bryan (Carrie Lankford) Huie. Bea was blessed with four great-grandchildren: Kendall, Delanie, Kaylee, and Abby, as well as another set of five great-grandchildren: Riley, Logan, Adaleigh, Bodie, and Myles. Many others fondly called her “Grandma Bea,” a testament to her loving nature that extended far beyond her immediate family.

Beatrice is also survived by her sister, Katherine (Robert) Marcotte Sr., along with their children, Robert (Kathy) and Greg (Darrell Brown), and her brother, William Mattson, Jr. She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, James Lahtinen, Sr.; her grandparents; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Bea was an avid reader, always on the lookout for her next literary adventure, and a fervent sports fan who enjoyed baseball, football, and hockey. She had a knack for finding treasures at rummage sales, always ready to discover something new. Her attention to detail and organization was reflected in everything she did, from the way she dressed-always stylish-to the thoughtful cards she wrote, filled with encouragement and birthday wishes for friends and family alike.

Her legacy of kindness and consideration for others was marked by her diligent prayers for their well-being. Bea’s tell-tale sign was her stickers and neatly secured envelopes, a small but significant reminder of her thoughtful nature.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the countless prayers, time, and service given to Bea in her final weeks and months, especially Sara, TJ, and Kathy. She will be missed tremendously; however, we celebrate her life, confident that she is now home, free of pain and suffering, reunited with the Lord and those who have gone before her.

Bea touched the lives of so many, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 4th from 12:00 noon-1:00 pm at Koskey Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 1:00 pm with Rev. Lloyd Luedeman officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed in Bea’s memory to Bethany Lutheran Church in Negaunee.

Mrs. Matthews memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com