Bruce Maki

Bruce W. Maki, aged 81, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2024 surrounded by family. Bruce was born in Waukegan, Illinois to loving parents Walter and Ruth Maki. He attended Suomi College, earned a B.A. from Northern Illinois University and a Master of Divinity from Hamma School of Theology.

Bruce served as pastor of All Saints Lutheran Church in Orland Park, Illinois, followed by a decade as Executive Director of the Southwest YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. He completed his career with 25 years in sales of electrical power protection equipment.

Bruce's innate ability to connect with people and his easy-going, selfless, caring disposition led him around the country (usually via backroads) to help others, sightsee or visit with treasured family and friends. Nature brought him peace and joy, as did 47 years of soul-stirring camaraderie and fishing at Camp Nawakwa, meals rich with conversation, reading, films, gardening, his affection for birds and cats, photography, the Packers, Formula One and meaningful trips to Finland and Israel.

Beloved partner of Anna; devoted father of Ben (Jacki); cherished brother of John (Julie) and Bob (Kate); dear uncle of Scott (Tammy), Eliisa (Tommy), Patrick, Colin and Emma; fond nephew of Marion; special bonus family of Mark (Anna); sweet dedushka of Ariel and Elle; generous bonus son of Lucille and the Tolonen family; loving cousin, godfather and steadfast friend of many.

The family would like to express gratitude to everyone who helped with Bruce's care. He was thankful for the kindness shown.

Bruce was so very loved and we will miss him.

Visitation Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 10 am with service at 12 pm, Pastor Jeffrey Koth officiating, at Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Rd., Zion, Illinois. An informal light lunch will follow at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, if desired, memorials may be made to:

GBS/CIDP Foundation International (Guillain-Barré Syndrome) at www.gbs-cidp.org. Or to YMCA Family Camp Nawakwa
https://www.ymcachicago.org/nawakwa/donate-to-family-camp-nawakwa (select Tribute Gift, then enter his name)