Marlis Maki

Marlis Pearl Maki, age 84, of Hudson, passed away January 18, 2020 at the Christian Community Home in Hudson, seven years after a stroke. Marlis was born on May 25, 1935, in Bertha, Minnesota, to Maynard and Pearl (Zimmerman) Graham. She grew up in Minnesota attending grade school in Bertha, Parkers Prairie and Eagle Bend, and graduated from Deer River High School in 1953. She continued her education at Bemidji State University where she earned a degree in teaching. On July 10, 1954, Marlis was united in marriage to Harry Maki in Springfield, MO. The couple moved to Hudson in December of 1958, and their marriage was blessed with two sons, Jeff and Bob. Marlis worked as a teacher’s aid with the Hudson School System, and spent most of her time at the North Hudson Elementary School and the Houlton Elementary School. She later worked as a legal secretary for the Cari Law Office.

Marlis’s greatest joy in life was her family, and above everything else, she cherished the impactful relationship she had with each of her grandchildren. She participated in the Red Hat Society, played in bowling leagues, and was fond of horseback riding. Marlis loved to golf several times a week, and enjoyed biking and playing cards, especially with her Bridge Club. Sixty years ago Marlis started a family vacation tradition spending time at Ottertail Lake, especially enjoying time at Phelps Mill, a favorite destination every year. Her children and grandchildren continue to look forward to the activities on the lake, enjoying fishing, boating, tubing, water skiing, golfing and biking. In addition, Marlis and Harry were long time active members of the United Methodist Church in Hudson. Following her stroke, she enjoyed the company of friends and reflection through prayer.

Marlis will remain in the hearts of her beloved caregiver and husband of 65 years, Harry; sons, Jeff (Sonja) and Bob (Becky); grandchildren, Peter (Jennifer Stricker), Taylor (Nate Waters), Joanna, Sam (Michaela DeGross), Jack, and Daniel; great-grandchildren, Abigail and Charlie Rose Waters; many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A Memorial Service for Marlis will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 31st at the United Methodist Church, 1401 Laurel Ave., Hudson. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, January 30th at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St., Hudson, and one hour prior to the service at church on Friday. Interment at Willow River Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to the Hudson United Methodist Church.