Matti O. Makinen

Matti Olavi Makinen, age 88, passed away peacefully on Thursday. August 19, 2021.

Matti was born in Finland on September 6, 1932 to Niilo and Elli Makinen. He married his loving wife, Helmi, in 1951. After serving in the Finish Army, Matti and his family moved to Australia for five years before settling in Chicago. He worked as a machinist at Triangle Packaging, and was eventually promoted to foreman. Matti was a 50 year member of the Sibelius Male Chorus/Amerikan Laulajat of Chicago, and performed at many concerts around the United States, Canada and Finland. Matti was also a devoted Boy Scout leader who helped his son, Markku, achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Matti is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Helmi Makinen (nee Friman); loving daughter, Raija Weiershauser (Brad) of South Sioux City, NE; cherished grandchildren, Michael Pauly (Randi), Matthew Weiershauser (Nicole), Tiina Czyznik (Sherri), Daniel Weiershauser (Amber), and Mikey; ten great-grandchilden; daughter-in-law, Tracy Makinen; son-in-law, Jerry Weiershauser; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews in Finland.

Preceded in death by his parents, Niilo and Elli Makinen; step-mother, Hilda; daughter, Tuula; and son, Markku.

Services for Matti will be held at a later date. For information, please contact Davenport Family Funeral Home, Crystal Lake, 815-459-3411.