Eugene “Butch” William Maki

Eugene “Butch” William Maki was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, sports enthusiast, animal lover, and a man whose happiest moments were often found surrounded by family, friends, and the quiet beauty of the North Woods.

Butch, 77, of Waukesha, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 7th after a five year battle with Alzheimer’s. He was born on June 4, 1949 to Eugene and Madeline (Pozega) Maki in Ironwood, Michigan. Eugene went to Luther L Wright High School. After graduation, he went on to complete his postsecondary education at University of Wisconsin-Stout with a degree in Electrical Engineering.

In 1970, he met the love of his life, Jamey Schmidt. They were married, June 2, 1973 and shared 53 timeless years together. In 1977, Butch started his career at SPX formerly Waukesha Electric Systems, in sales, and remained there 38 years until his retirement in 2015.

Butch had many joys in life, but some of his greatest were sports, animals, and, most of all, his family. Growing up in the snowy U.P., he loved skiing. Later, he enjoyed bowling with Jamey, playing in church and work softball leagues, and golfing. Butch spent countless weeknights and weekends at swim meets, cheering on his daughters. He had a fondness for the Badgers, Brewers, and Packers. He also had a special love for animals, especially Rascal, his favorite dog and watching the birds from his sunroom. Above all else, Butch loved his family and camping at Crystal Lake in Northern Wisconsin.

Eugene’s memory will live on by those he leaves behind; his wife, Jamey; daughters, Jenna Maki, Amanda (RJ) Szelc, Kirstin (Marcus) Watters; five grandchildren, Sophia, Bryson, Timber, Campbell, and Aspen; his brother, Denny Maki; mother-in-law, Joan Schmidt; brother-in-law, Jim (Kathy) Schmidt; sister-in-law, Jill (Craig) Haupt; and countless nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Madeline Maki; his father-in-law, M. James Schmidt; in addition to his grandparents, uncles, and aunts.

A private service was held at Hales Corners Lutheran Church. For online obit or condolences visit www.heritagefuneral.com.