Rudolph "Rudy" J. Maki

Rudolph “Rudy” J. Maki, age 80, of Eveleth, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, with his cousin Betty holding his hand. His family takes comfort in his unwavering faith, knowing he is now with the Lord and joyfully reunited with the loved ones he missed so deeply.

Rudy was a strong, stoic, and determined man, deeply devoted to his family, his work, his faith, and his community. He graduated from Cherry High School and pursued his passion for floral design at the Rittners School of Floral Design in Boston, Massachusetts. After returning to Minnesota’s Iron Range, he married Katherine Jensen and took over Johnson Floral & Gifts, which he operated with pride for more than 50 years. Rudy was passionate about his work and served early on as a regional officer in a national floral industry organization.

He was also part-owner of Hibbing Fabricators and one of the founding members of the Fireside Investment Club, named after their first meeting at his home by the fireplace.

Rudy’s dedication to the community was evident in his involvement with the Jaycees, the Lions Club, and the Elks Club. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he considered it a privilege to serve in church leadership and participate in several mission trips.

He cherished time spent with family, entertaining loved ones, traveling to warmer destinations, fishing, camping, bowling, golfing, gardening, and attending local dirt track car races.

He is survived by his loving mother, Kathryn; daughter Melissa (David) Rodefeld; son Brian Maki; grandsons Michael, Mark (Kati), Mackenzie, and Lennox; great- granddaughters Madalyn, Myla, and Phoebe; sister Debra (Dennis) Overlock; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Rudy was preceded in death by his wife, Sandy; his infant daughter, Tami Kay; his father, Rudolph; his sisters Marilyn and Carol; and his brother Gary. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Cousin Betty and the staff and residents of The Waterview Woods for their care, friendship, and support during Rudy’s final years.

A private family interment will be held at the Maple Hill Columbarium in Hibbing, MN.

Arrangements were made with the Dougherty Funeral Home in Hibbing, MN.