John Maki

He was born October 20, 1956, in Marquette, a son of Charles H. and Patricia (Kiltinen) Maki. He was raised in Marquette and was a 1974 graduate of Marquette Senior High School and was that years Valedictorian of his class.

John earned a Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from MTU and a Master’s degree from NMU in business administration. He later earned a Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree in Geology from MTU. He was the graduate student of the year at NMU and was a member of Delta Sig Fraternity while at MTU.

He was employed at Firestone Tire Company and Conoco Oil Company before returning to Marquette where he was employed at TV6, KMart and Target. He also had served as an adjunct professor at NMU and MTU.

He served as a Marquette Sister City delegate. His interests included rocks & minerals and astronomy. He was an accomplished pianist and spoke 5 languages.

John is survived by his siblings, David Maki of St. Johns, MI and Diane (John) Illikainen of Marquette; nieces & nephews, Gina (Kyle) Keskey-Maki of Farmington Hills, MI, Kayla (Alejandro) Ortiz of El Paso, TX, Zachary Maki of Tampa, FL, Eliisa (Bryce Genovese) Gladwell of Marquette, James (Eli) Gladwell of Marquette, Eric Gladwell of Marquette and John Illikainen II of Marquette; and great-nieces & nephews, Lilian & Iris Keskey, Easton herman, Isabella Ortiz, Alejandro Ortiz and Oliver Keskey-Maki.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister-in-law, Mary.

John’s family would like to thank Kim Frost, Stephanie Epper and her staff and the staff at UP Health System Marquette for the care and help they provided.

Honoring John’s request, no services will be held.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting the family where memories may be shared at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.