Jerry T. Maki

Gerald “Jerry” T. Maki, age 77, died unexpectedly at home on Monday, January 16, 2023. He was born in Wakefield, MI on January 9, 1946 to the late Oliver and Lillian (Makinen) Maki. Jerry graduated from Kaukauna High School in 1964. Jerry served in the US Army from 1965 to 1967. He met his future wife, Candy, while stationed in Ft. Meade, MD. They were married on April 6, 1968 in Baltimore, MD. Jerry worked for Ameritech (AT&T) for 25 years, retiring in 1994. After retirement, Jerry kept busy working part-time by tending bar at CJ Ritz and delivering parts for E-Z Glide.

Together Jerry and Candy enjoyed several winters in Crystal River, FL and summers in Bailey’s Harbor, WI where he enjoyed salmon fishing with his good friend Dick Franke. Jerry enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his grandkids compete in sports and dance. Jerry loved his annual deer hunting trips at the cabin even though in the 40+ years of “hunting” he never got a deer but always had a roaring fire stoked for the guys. Jerry also looked forward to his Thursday “Book Club” at the Roundabout.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 54 years, Candy; daughters: Jennifer (Mark) Lamers and grandchildren: Hayley and Lindsay (special friend Gio) Lamers, Kristin (James) Veldman and grandchildren: Emma and Tyler Veldman; brother and sister-in-law: Ed (Linda) Stromberg; nieces: Keri and Erin Stromberg, Jessica Maki and Sara (Ryan) Hale; grandnephew, Logan; and grandniece, Allison Hale. He is further survived by numerous relatives, friends, and special friends: Tom and Judy Helf and their family.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his in-laws: Edward (Virginia) Stromberg; and his brother and sister-in-law: Bruce and Susan Maki.

Jerry was very proud of his Finnish heritage and his “sisu.” A celebration of life in remembrance of Jerry will be held at a later date. To leave an online condolence please visit www.verkuilenfh.com.

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