Ronald Gene Maki Sr.

He was born July 27, 1943, to Walfred and Mamie Maki in Covington. He was in the U.S. Army for two years and was stationed in Germany during that time. When he returned to the states, he lived in Milwaukee, where he met Larene Rose. They were married on Dec. 2, 1967.

He had a dream of driving a semi, which he did for many years until he retired. Over 12 years, he drove to all of the 48 continental states.

He was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and helped with maintenance for several years.

He loved spending time with his family and his dog, Penny. He very much enjoyed going to all of his grandchildren’s sporting events. You could often find him watching his favorite TV show M*A*S*H, and also American Pickers.

Ronald also had a “rivalry” between his Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings with his nephew, David.

You could always count on him to lend a helping hand, a laugh and a smile. He will be sadly missed by those who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Larene; his parents, seven brothers; and three sisters.

Ronald is survived by his children, Carrie (Roger) Valine of Florence and Ronald (Melissa) Maki Jr. of Kingsford; grandchildren, Chelsea (Tyler) Neuens of San Diego, Tyler Valine of Green Bay, Wis., Victoria Boersma and Trent Maki, both of Kingsford; great-grandchildren, Olivia and Lincoln Neuens; and many special nieces, nephews and extended family.

Visitation will be 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 24 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Kingsford. Funeral services will follow at noon at the church.

Rev. Matthew Ruesch will officiate.

Condolences to the family of Ronald G. Maki Sr. may be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.