Debra L. Maki

Debra L. Maki, age 68, of Chatham, died on Tuesday morning, November 12, 2019 at Medilodge in Munising, Michigan following a brief illness.  She was born in Marquette, Michigan on July 29, 1951 to the late Bernie and Arlene (Laakso) Maki.  Debra grew up in Chatham with her family at a time when disabled children did not always stay in their homes and she was the apple of her parent’s eyes.   Debra attended school in Eben and at the Intermediate School District in Munising.   It was through the ISD that Debra was able to get a job at Lutey’s Flower Shop in Marquette.  She flourished there making floral arrangements and it was a job she truly loved.  Growing up, Debra’s mom taught her how to knit, cook, garden, and can.  She was a great cook and specialized in making pasties with flour strewn all over the kitchen.  Debra proudly knit hundreds of slippers and hats, and for many years, she knit clothing for dolls and Barbie Dolls.  She especially enjoyed Christmas and handing out candy to trick or treaters on Halloween.  Debra was able to live at her family home with the help of family and Commission on Aging until four years ago when she moved to Medilodge.  Even at the nursing home, Debra touched the lives of the residents and staff.  She was a great listener and as her health declined, Debra was at peace and was looking forward to being reunited with her parents.

She is survived by her siblings – Diana (Paul) Mattila of South Republic, MI, Katie (Tom) Moore of Chatham, Pauline Barron of Oak Harbor, WA, Michael (Julie) Maki of Gwinn, and Gary Maki of Chatham; and numerous nieces and nephews.  Debra was preceded in death by her loving parents, Bernie and Arlene Maki.

Pastor Paul Kelto will conduct Debra's graveside service on Saturday, June 20, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Pine Grove Cemetery.