Richard Bernhardt Maki

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Richard Maki, who entered into heaven on July 29, 2024. Born on May 12, 1939, in Aurora, MN, to Benhart and Lila Maki, Richard lived a life marked by dedication to his family, career, and hobbies.

Richard was united in marriage to Nancy Clark on December 21, 1963, in Menomonie, WI. Together, they shared over six decades of love and partnership.

He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; his son, Krege Maki of Mounds View, MN; and his daughter, Kristin (Brian) Moher of Burnsville, MN. He was a proud grandfather to Madeline Moher of Madison, WI, and Braiden Moher of Burnsville, MN. His surviving family also includes his sister, Roberta (Jim) Turk of Appleton, WI; sister-in-law Jeanne (Don) Maki of Hoyt Lakes, MN; brother-in-law Duane (Joyce) Smith of Shakopee, MN; and sisters-in-law Judy (David) Clark of New Braunfels, TX, and Ann (Jim) Clark of Phoenix, AZ. He will be missed by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Benhart and Lila Maki, in-laws Clinton and Harriet Clark; grandparents Oscar and Amelia Aho, and Andrew and Emma Maki; sister Joyce Smith; brother Don Maki; and in-laws Mike Ziebell, Jim Turk, David Clark, Jim Clark, Larry and Karen Smith, Neal and Jean Krumm, Marilyn Bents; niece Lori Smith Feyen; and nephews Robert Clark and Brett Bents.

A lifelong learner, Richard graduated from Aurora-Hoyt Lakes High School in Aurora, MN, and went on to earn his BS and MS degrees from UW-Stout in Menomonie, WI. He shared his passion for auto mechanics through teaching positions at Muskegon, MI, Western Technical College in La Crosse, WI, Hibbing Technical College in Hibbing, MN, and Bemidji Technical College in Bemidji, MN, where he also served as the Administrator of the Automotive Department.

Richard found joy in restoring and repairing old cars. He and Nancy were active members of the Hibbing, Bemidji, and St. Paul Curling Clubs and enjoyed many snowmobiling excursions with friends in Hibbing.

In his later years, Richard bravely endured a long battle with dementia. His strength and perseverance during this challenging time were a testament to his character and will always be remembered by those who knew him.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, and his contributions to the field of auto mechanics education will not be forgotten.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 16th, 2024 at 11AM at Abiding Savior Lutheran Church in Mounds View, MN, where family and friends will gather to celebrate him. Visitation one hour prior. 

Rest in peace, Richard Maki. Your memory will forever be cherished.

To the Allina Hospice team and the Mounds View paramedics,

Words cannot fully express the depth of our gratitude for the compassion, comfort, and guidance you provided during a profoundly difficult journey. Your unwavering support brought peace and grace to both Dick and our family, helping us navigate through a challenging time with dignity and care.

Your dedication to serving others is truly a gift, and we are eternally grateful for the kindness and professionalism you showed us. May you find as much grace in life as you generously give to others. Your work makes a world of difference, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.