Patricia Makela
GWINN, MI- Patricia Anne “Pat” Makela, age 77, of Gwinn, affectionately known as “Putty,” passed away at home on April 2, 2025 in the loving care of her family and caregivers at UP Home Health and Hospice.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Pat brought joy, laughter, and kindness to everyone she met.
Born on February 1, 1948, in Ishpeming, a daughter of William and Isabelle (Bellmore) Kytosaari, Pat graduated from National Mine High School in 1966. After high school, she moved to Waukegan, Illinois where she worked for Abbott Laboratories for several years. She later returned to the Upper Peninsula and became a beloved bartender at the Hi-Lo Club in Negaunee and the Idle Time Bar in Skandia. It was at the Hi-Lo Club that she met the love of her life, Paul Makela. The two were married on June 9, 1973, and built a beautiful life together, first in Harvey, where they raised their family before settling in Gwinn in 1990.
A dedicated homemaker, Pat had a zest for life that was evident in everything she did. She had a passion for golf, horseshoes, pool, four-wheeling, and softball. She loved to sauna and swim, barrel race in her younger years, and ride horses. She also enjoyed trips to the casino, and above all, she had a servant’s heart. Always giving, Pat was heavily involved in volunteer work and was known for her positive attitude and quick-witted one-liners like calling something “succulent” or declaring someone “rough and tough and hard to bluff.”
A proud and passionate Green Bay Packer fan, Pat was truly a force to be reckoned with–a spitfire, compassionate, and endlessly fun. She left a lasting impact on her community, so much so that the 2025 UP Pink Power Walk will be dedicated to her in honor of her selfless work and contributions.
Pat is survived by her loving husband, Paul, and her cherished family: daughter, Leslie (Lonnie) Moore of Gwinn; grandchildren, Hayley (Eric) Johnson of Skandia and Chase (Emily) Ashby of Lexington, KY; great-grandchildren, Ravanna Roberts, Malena Johnson, Olivia Johnson, Judah Johnson, Josiah Johnson, and Hosea Johnson; her sisters, Connie (Alvin) Porter and Cindy (Earl) Caswell; numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will forever hold her memory close.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Elaine Glavich; brothers, William Kytosaari, Ronald Kytasaari, and Lawrence Kytasaari; and infant sisters, Sharon and Suzanne.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at UP Home Health and Hospice, especially Paula T., Jacob, Chelsea, and Tiffany for their love and support.
Patricia Makela was more than just a beloved member of her family–she was a legend in her community. Her kindness, strength, and humor will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to UPAWS (Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter) 815 South M-553, Gwinn, MI 49841.
A celebration of Pat’s incredible life will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in Gwinn on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Friends may call at the church beginning at 10:00 am until the time of service at 12:00 pm. Rev. Jack Busche, pastor, will officiate. A reception will be held in the church hall following the service.
The Canale-Gwinn Funeral Home and Cremation Service is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at canalefuneral.com.