- Date Of Birth: February 4, 1939
- Date Of Death: November 1, 2009
- State: Minnesota
Kent Allen Maki, 70, of Sand Lake, Britt, MN was born on February 4, l939 in Buhl, Minnesota. He died unexpectedly on November 1, 2009, at his home. Ken was a l957 graduate of the Martin Hughes High School in Buhl. He attended Virginia Junior College for two years, then received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Minnesota, Duluth. He received his Masters of Education Degree from Bemidji State University. Ken taught mathematics and chemistry for thirty-five years in the Aurora/Mesabi East School District. His love for teaching, his mastery of the subject matter, and his witty sense of humor made him an excellent educator. He married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Perala, on June 22, l963. Together they made their home in Virginia, MN and were the proud parents of a son and a daughter. Just three years ago, Ken and Nancy furthered their dreams and moved to a year round home on Sand Lake. Ken enjoyed being “busy” with the many projects that came with lake living. Gentle, jovial, strong, kind and loving are qualities that Ken possessed. His quick wit was spontaneous and a trait admired by all who were fortunate to be in his company. He, also, had a gift for music. Modest and humble, Ken couldn’t be coaxed into singing or playing an instrument – unless a lot of people persuaded him and gave him a few beers too! He was especially known for his renditions of Bobby Aro’s Finn-glish songs. Ken’s love for sports was so apparent that people knew not to stop or call on a Sunday afternoon during a Vikings’ game!
Ken was the first one to lend a helping hand to others. This was evident in all of the work he did for his Church – usually behind the scenes with his Finnlander buddy, Willard Aho.
Ken was an active member of the men’s club at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, Habitat for Humanity, and Curl Mesabi.
Kent is survived by his wife of 46 years, Nancy; son, Eric (special friend Shelly Bristol), daughter, Kathy (Chad) Seppala and his very beloved grandchildren: Maija, Markus, and Mikko Maki, and Bo and Rollie Seppala; brothers: Jack (Donna) Maki, Harvey (Nancy) Maki, Ray (Aune) Maki; his sister, Laina Beurala as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Tynne Maki and brother, Walter.
