Anthony Lawrence "Tony" Makela

Anthony (Tony) Lawrence Makela, 68, formerly of Alexandria, Minnesota, died in his home on January 6, 2026, in Cantonment, Florida.
Tony was born in 1957, San Antonio, Texas. He graduated from Alexandria High School Alexandria, Minnesota, in 1975 and subsequently enlisted in the United States Navy. Tony retired as a Chief Aviation Electrician's Mate (AW) after 20 years of honorable military service. His military career included direct support of multiple conflicts, with duty stations throughout the world.
Tony was preceded in death by his sons, Edward (Eddie) Makela, Kevin (Kev) Coppersmith, and mother-in-law Marion E. Tufts. Tony is survived by his devoted wife of 20 years, Debra Makela; his mother, Virginia Makela (companion Stuart Swanstrom); his children, Jessica Makela (William (Bill) Smith), Hope Coppersmith, Jennifer Coolbrith (husband, Seth R. Coolbrith); his grandchildren, Zackory Gallant, Peyton Coolbrith, and Seth A. Coolbrith; his brothers, Robert Makela (wife, Paula Makela); Towne Makela; sisters, Trista Makela, Cindi Yell (husband, Arlen Yell); along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and lifetime friends.
A Funeral Service celebrating the life of Anthony (Tony) Lawrence Makela will be held on Saturday the 13th of June, summer of 2026, at Oscar Lake Lutheran Church, (or at a venue close by in the area) in Alexandria, Minnesota. Please check back on this page for updates, to receive arrival times for visitation and the memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the 'Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation', which supports Gold Star families, first responders, and housing for disabled Veterans.
DONATIONS may be made in honor of Tony Makela (aka The Swede) to Tunnel to Towers at www.t2t.org.