Russell Gary Maki Sr., 68, of the town of Kohlsville, passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2015 at the Cedar Lake Health and Rehabilitation Center in West Bend surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on July 1, 1946 in Stambaugh City, Michigan, the son of the late Tovio and Mayme (Laakaniemi) Maki. He was united in marriage to Gloria Miller on October 7, 1988 in West Bend.
Russell was a proud Vietnam Veteran and served his country in the Marine Corps from 1964 until 1967. Russell drove truck and was an owner operator for more than 40 years. He enjoyed traveling all around the country while driving for work. Russell often said "Why would I want to go anywhere else, there is plenty to see in this country." He was also known for his love of Harley Davidson motorcycles and classic cars. Russell had a 1966 Ford Falcon that he enjoyed drag racing. He also enjoyed taking trips to ride ATV's and shooting trap at the West Bend Barton Sportsman's Club where he was also a member.
Those Russell leaves behind to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 26 years, Gloria; three children, Russell (Linette) Maki Jr. of Jackson, Richard (Ericka) Maki of Kewaskum, and Ronald (Keri) Maki of Hartford; four step-children, Ronald (Ginger) Stone of Austin, Texas, Scott (Dana) Stone of Wake Forrest, North Carolina, Brian (Laura Schroeder) Stone of Kewaskum, and Laura Peterson of Holiday, Florida; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Mildred Soderbloom of Iron River, Michigan and Dorothy Poehlman of Palm Springs, California; a sister-in-law, Marlene Chase of Muskego; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, Toivo Maki and Mayme Bauer, Russell was preceded in death by a brother, Marvin Maki and a brother-in-law Dick Chase.
Military Honors for Russell will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2015, at 1:00 p.m. at West Bend Barton Sportsman's Club in West Bend. The Maki family will be sharing stories and tributes from 11:00 a.m. until the time of honors. A luncheon will follow the Military Honors.