Brian Keith Makela

Brian Keith Makela, age 57, of rural Eveleth, passed away on Wednesday, March 5th, 2025, at St. Luke's Hospital in Duluth, Minnesota; after a hard fought battle with cancer with family by his side.

He was born on April 3rd, 1967, in Virginia, Minnesota, to Donald and Jane Makela. Brian graduated from Virginia High School in 1985, and the University of Minnesota in 1990.

After receiving a degree in psychology he was employed by Range Mental Health Center for a few years, followed by a 25 year employment with Range Transitional Housing in Virginia.

Brian had many interests including music, fishing, hunting, spending time at “the shack” or in his “dog house”, but his favorite activities were focused on spending quality time with his family and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Makela; and his brother, Troy Makela.

He is survived by his mother, Jane, and step-father, Geno Halberg; his daughters, Amanda and Danielle; step-children: Tiffany, Brittany, Hunter, Hannah, and Harrison; former wives, Rhonda and Michelle; several grandchildren; step-brother, Johnny Bulver; step-sister, Kaylene Halberg; and a host of aunts; uncles, and cousins.

A memorial service for Brian will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Virginia, Minnesota, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation being held at 10:00 a.m.