As received from the Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home:
Wendy Gayle Altman Makela, 59, of Laurium, passed away on January 30, 2025 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth, MN from complications of long-term illness.
Wendy was born on November 24, 1965 in Sheboygan, WI. She moved to the Upper Peninsula in her early teens and graduated from Lake Linden-Hubbell High School in 1985. She met her love and life companion, Stacey Makela, in 1984. Together, they had three children and ran the Lakes Lumber Yard. Wendy was a woman of incredible strength, both in spirit and body. She was as tough as they come—known for hauling lumber heavier than herself.
She had a quick wit, which kept everyone on their toes, and an infectious laugh. She faced life’s challenges with unwavering determination and a sense of humor that never faded. She loved to spend time with her grandchildren and watch classic TV. She enjoyed gardening, fishing and dancing in the kitchen. She will be remembered for her delicious home cooking and her creativity. Like her father, she was a living music encyclopedia.
Wendy is preceded in death by her father, Neil V. Altman and her maternal and paternal grandparents.
She is survived by her devoted partner, Stacy Makela; children Douglas Makela, Lyndsey Makela, and Nicole (Brandon) Makela; grandchildren Jordyn, Aurorah-Elizabeth, Dakota-Monroe, and Jaxon; sister and best friend Katie (Richard) Laplander.
No public services will be held at the request of the deceased.
The Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences for the family may be left at www.ericksoncrowleypeterson.com.
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