Robert J. Maki

GARDNER - Robert J. Maki, 71, of Gardner died Sunday, December 18, 2022, at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, MA.

He was born in Fitchburg on December 4, 1951, a son of the late Toivo Maki and Anna (Kuriger) Maki.

Robert grew up in Fitchburg and graduated from Fitchburg High School. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Education from Fitchburg State College. Bob worked at Gardner High School for 33 years teaching Woodworking and was a local business owner. He was an avid HAM Radio operator and a local HAM Radio Club member. He was also a member of the Gardner Pistol & Rifle Club and was an accomplished marksman. He was a National Association of Clock and Watch Collectors member and was a talented guitarist.

He leaves his beloved family including his wife of 48 years, Louanne (Shortsleeve) Maki; his daughter, Shauna Kluge and her husband James of Sturbridge; his son, Patrick Maki and his wife Chrystal of Ashland; his sister, Jane Caputi of Fitchburg; two brothers, Tom Maki of Leominster, David Maki of California; five grandchildren, Ollie Maki, Liam Maki, Annabelle Kluge, Nicholas Kluge, Jacob Kluge; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sister, Gail Rice.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 23, 2022, at 7 pm in the Mack Family Funeral Home 105 Central Street, Gardner, Massachusetts. Burial will be private at a later date.

Calling hours will be held Friday, Friday, December 23, 2022, from  5:00 PM to  7:00 PM at the funeral home.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.mackfamilyfh.com.

Mack Family Funeral Home, 105 Central St., Gardner is directing arrangements.

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Douglas M. Stone, funeral directors.