Richard "Coach Mac" Makela

Richard “Coach Mac” Makela, age 84, passed away peacefully at his home on February 18, 2024. 

Richard was born May 23, 1939, in Duluth, MN to Eino Makela and Ann (Susnik) Makela.

He served in the U.S. Navy for four years receiving an honorable discharge. Richard was an accomplished athlete, coach, and was inducted into the MAYBA Hall of Fame. He loved fishing and gardening and was proud to have the Makela record for 74 consecutive years of fishing at King Lake.

Richard married his grade school sweetheart, Jeanne Signorelli, on November 5, 1960. His profession as an optician brought the family to Mankato in 1966 with his promotion.

Survived by his wife, Jeanne; five children, Lori (Bryan), Bob (Darla), Dan (Tracey), David (Shelly), and Rick; grandchildren, Elizabeth, Jessica, Lauren, Andrew, Kaleigh, Jacob, Alec, Noah, Tyler, and Aubrey; great-grandchildren, Tanner, David, and Wesley; brother, Tony; and sister, Melladee.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Joe.

Funeral Mass will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Mankato on Wednesday, February 21 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the mass at the church.  Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery. Northview-North Mankato Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.