Audrey Ellen Maki

Audrey Ellen (Verplaetse) Maki left us unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 23, 2023.
Audrey was born March 16, 1934. During her 89 years she was surrounded by many of
the things that brought her joy. She loved playing cards and bingo with her large group of
friends. Her kids were well aware not to call her after 4:30 pm as she would be playing
cards, bingo or sharing a meal out with her friends. They took care of each other and
loved visiting together. They also avoided calling her during her Saturday night ritual of
watching Mollie B. Polka Party, Gaither Gospel Hour and certain games on the Game
Show Network. Audrey was quite funny and a bit quirky. She enjoyed her collections;
from turtles, ceramic tea pots, and bird tchotchkes to name a few. Her favorite was
miniature anything, particularly miniature kitchen utensils.
Audrey was one of the oldest members of Wesley United Methodist Church. Until
recently, she was secretary of UMW and Sarah’s Circle. She was also involved in
Wesley’s Widows and spent countless hours in the kitchen making pasties. She was
currently coordinating the mailing of the monthly church newsletter and took great pride
in being able to assist. Her ability to remember the smallest of details was extraordinary
and often times annoying.
Audrey told whoever would listen that she was very proud to have all her “original parts”
at 89! Left to miss her are her many friends and nieces and nephews.
She is survived by her daughters, Susie (Glen) Milani, Sandi (Gary) Gasperini, Sara
(Kevin) Grinde, Sharla (Clayton) Liend, Stacy Vincent, grandchildren, Craig (Lauren),
Shaina (Wayne), Arin (Adam), Alexis (Rob), Aleah (Kevin), Blake (Sharla), Breanna,
Noah, great-grandchildren, Hailee, Carter, Leah, Elynn, Asher, Amaya, Kai, Isaiah,
Aubrie, Evann, Ava, Ahna, Braydon (Hartleigh), Burandt (Harmony), Brecken, Brayelle,
Blaydon, Jaylee, great-great grandchild, Cardyn, sisters-in-law, Donna Nyhus and Dianne
Verplaetse.
Preceding Audrey in death were her husband, Reino, brothers, Clayton and Ron, sister,
Phyllis and her parents Jules and Doris Verplaetse, as well as many other family
members and friends. A memorial service will be held 11 am Tuesday, August 29, 2023
at Wesley United Methodist Church in Hibbing. Visitation will be held from 10 am until
the beginning of the service at 11 at the church. Private interment will be held at Maple
Hill Cemetery in Hibbing.