Harry Edwin Maki

Harry E. (Ed) Maki, 93, of Menahga, died suddenly Wednesday, April 7th, 2010 at St. Joseph’s Area Health Services in Park Rapids. Two hours before his death Ed was enjoying watching a broadcast of the Minnesota Twins. Harry Edwin Isaac Maki was born in Newton Township, Otter Tail County on December 10, 1916 to Maria Sofia and Isaac K. Maki. He was the youngest of eight children. Ed grew up in Menahga and graduated from Menahga High school in 1934. He was employed at Lampert’s Mill in Menahga and on June 1, 1940 he and Patricia Young were united in marriage. Ed and Pat lived in Detroit for a few years where Ed worked at Continental Motors. He entered the US army and was honorably discharged after the end of WWII. Ed and Pat purchased their home in 1949 and spent the next 54 years raising their family. He was active in the community and served on the Methodist church board, the C&C, the volunteer fire department and served on the school board as treasurer for many years being elected to the board 7 times. Ed was employed for 30 years in the post office and retired as postmaster at Menahga in 1978. Upon retirement, Leisure World in Weslaco Texas became their second home, spending the winters in Texas for 22 years where they enjoyed their social activities and lifelong friendships. Ed was an accomplished woodworker and handyman, crafting furniture, candlesticks, picture frames, building kitchen cabinets, and home remodeling. He was the lead mechanic of the local snowmobile group in the 70s; he was an avid golfer, accomplished hunter, fisherman and bowler. Ed loved to play guitar and sing; he especially enjoyed folk music and barbershop quartets. Ed and Pat loved and found joy and fulfillment raising their children: Mary (Floyd) Bryce, Jim (Ardith) Maki (deceased), Rene (Jim) Hoversten, Myra (Paul) Haldorson, Brian (Toni) Maki, Craig (Deb) Maki, and Cindy (Dean) Gilster. Ed is survived by 19 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and was preceded in death by his beloved wife Pat, son Jim, and infant grandchildren Brent and Bradley. Visitation will be from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sunday, April 11, 2010 at the Menahga United Methodist Church. Memorial Services will be held 11:00 AM Monday, April 12, 2010 at the Menahga United Methodist Church with Pastor Loren Ferch officiating. Special Music will be provided by Mitch Maki. Inurnment will be at the Menahga City Cemetery at a later date.