HILJA MAKI's Obituary
HILJA MAKI , 98, of Nisula passed away Wednesday evening March 11, 2009 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital , L'Anse She had been a patient there for a week. Hilja was born in Simar, MI. on May 16 1910 the daughter of the late John and Hilma (Kauppinen) Wettberg. She graduated from Mass City High School in 1928. Following high school she worked as a domestic in Milwaukee then moved to Detroit. Hilja married Walter E. Maki there in March of 1942. They returned to Nisula. While in Nisula she was employed as a cook for the Laird Township School. Walter passed away on October 3, 1958. After his death Hilja returned to Detroit where she began working in the housekeeping department at William Beaumont Hospital. She retired in1975 after ten years at the hospital. Hilja then returned to Nisula. She was a member of Mission United Lutheran Church, Pelkie, the L'Anse Senior citizens and the L'Anse Eagles #2287. Hilja enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, watching game shows,soap operas, walking and was fond of her cats.
Mrs. Maki is survived by her loving daughter, Joyce Budreau of Nisula, grandchildren, Linda, Dan, Susan, Deborah, step-grandchildren Larry, and Carrie, great grandchildren, Zachary, Amber, Aaron, Elliana, and Austin. Several nieces and nephews also survive. She was preceded in death by her son- in- law, Bruce on August 17, 2007, 7 sisters and 2 brothers.
Funeral services for Mrs. Maki were held at 12 noon Saturday, March 14, 2009 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse with Pastor John Autio officiating. Spring interment will take place in the Nisula Cemetery. The family greeted friends at the funeral chapel on Saturday from 11 a.m. until the time of the service. Following the service the family invited friends to join them for fellowship and a luncheon in the Harrington Gathering Room located at the funeral home.
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