Birute Virginia (Valeckas) Sakenis, Dorchester, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025 at the age of 92.
She was born on August 30, 1932 in Gineitiškes, Vilnius County, Lithuania. Proud of her origins, she would say she was daddy’s girl from “Buckwheat Country”, Lithuania.
Birute was predeceased by her parents, Juozas (1978 Boston MA) and Julija (Aliukonis) Valeckas (1972 Boston MA), loving husband, Kliaudas Vytautas Sakenis (1986 Natick MA) and three sisters: Aldona Vilutis (2010 Canada), Laima Kontautas (2015 Boston MA) and Angela (1995 Boston MA).
In the 1940’s, Birute along with her parents and three sisters left difficult conditions in Lithuania, becoming Displaced Persons (DPs). After living in refugee camps in Germany they arrived in the US in 1950 and settled in South Boston, MA. She became a patriot of ALL things Lithuanian and of becoming a United States citizen.
While Birute considered herself to be “a walking encyclopedia” and “a nature girl”, more accurately she was a Renaissance Woman. She read about plants, animals, health, science and the sky. She spoke 7 languages. Her days were spent being artistic- coloring, collaging and applying glitter to everything, yes, everything! Birute remembered everybody’s birthday, so you were sure to receive a card decorated with loads of stickers.
Birute will be fondly remembered for many things: She was a fashionista who loved animal prints, jewels and lots of glitter. Guardian angels (she had hundreds of figurines). Her love of animals (especially kitty cats) and her garden. Hours spent talking on the phone, and in younger days, hours spent shopping. A particular point of pride for Birute was her involvement in the Lithuanian National Guard and her role as Commander.
Birute is survived by her Goddaughter Lisa Maleckas and cousin Ann Marie (Yelmokas) McDermott, who became guardians in her later years; nephews Algis Vilutis, Audrius (Debbie) Kontautas and niece Lydia (Kontautas; Romas) Rudis; and Yelmokas / Jalmokas cousins in the US and Lithuania. Devoted friend across the decades Maria Ensins lovingly supported Birute through many of life’s phases, as did Tony Yelmokas, Charlie Maneikis and Jonas Stundzia. We also thank many friends who sent cards, visited, brought gifts and made phone calls that brightened every day. Prayer was very important to Birute.
Much appreciation to the staff at the Bostonian Rehab & Nursing Center, Dorchester, for the respectful, patient and tailored care provided to Birute. We are especially grateful to Nurse Rhoda Edouard who made Birute feel special, safe and loved every day.
Viewing at Saint Peter Lithuanian Church, 75 Flaherty Way, South Boston, Friday, March 14, 2025, 10:00 – 11:00am. Funeral Mass: Friday, March 14, 2025, 11:00am. Burial to follow immediately at New Calvary Cemetery, Mattapan.
Flowers not permitted in church during Lent. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Saint Peter Lithuanian Church or Lithuanian National Guard at https://sauliai.org/