Kenneth Makela Obituary

Kenneth Severin Makela, 97, passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, while still living at his home in Maple, WI. He was born on February 26, 1927, in Maple to Konsta and Mary (Saari) Makela. Konsta immigrated to Maple in 1907 when he was 19 years old. Marry Saari was born in Maple.
Kenny was united in marriage to Ellen Rankinson on March 15, 1947. They enjoyed spending time in the forest looking for wild blueberries, logging, and they were both avid readers who eagerly awaited the monthly Book Mobile before her passing on March 10, 2002. Kenny and Ellen had four sons Kent, Terrence, Dennis, and Randy.
He worked for many companies during his lifetime. He and his uncle Charlie Makela worked in the woods cutting pulp for many years to supplement their income. Even though the work was difficult in the winter, both Kenny and Charlie loved to be outside.
Kenny was a storyteller, he wrote his first Memoir, Maplenen Poika (Boy from Maple) in 2005. He recalls life on the farm in Maple during the depression. He then wrote a second memoir that detailed his work and memories of his parents, Konsta and Mary, and Ellen's family. His niece, Joyce Maki Luedke assisted Kenny when writing these adventures. Kenny also loved to fish the Brule River and Lake Superior in his free time and always loved his dogs' companionship.
Kenneth is survived by his sons Kent (Jeanette) Makela, Dennis (Marlene) Makela, and Randy Makela; grandchildren Allan (Tammy) Makela, Marc (Jennifer) Makela, Robert (Heather) Makela, Mary (Jason) Malicoat, Jennifer (Brain) Blackburn, and Lisa (Bill) Cockerham; ten great-grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Ellen Makela; son Terrence Makela; his parents Konsta and Mary; older sister Elvie Makela (Lehtimaki); and older brother Arnold Makela.
A Celebration of Kenneth's Life will be held from 3:00 - 5:00 PM Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home, 1209 E. 5th Street in Superior.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made in Kenneth's name to the Oulu Cultural and Heritage Society, 71055 Muskeg Rd, Iron River, WI 54847.
The Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home, 1209 E 5th Street in Superior, is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook visit www.lenroot-maetzold.com.
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