It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Jacob "Jake" Mikko Makela, who left us unexpectedly on July 21, 2026, at just 27 years old. Jake was born on June 9, 1999, in Moose Lake, MN, and he spent his entire life in Finlayson, where he brought joy and laughter to everyone around him.

A proud graduate of Hinckley Finlayson High School, Jake graduated in 2017, where he enjoyed playing golf. After graduation, he dove headfirst into the construction world, joining the Rice Lake Construction Group in Deerwood, MN, as a laborer, a job he cherished. He was also a proud member of Local #563 LIUNA.

Jake had a passion for the outdoors—whether it was deer hunting, fishing, or ice fishing, he adored every moment spent in nature. He loved riding his side by side and taking his sister, Alexis, along with his niece, Freya, and nephew, Emmit, for thrilling rides. Jake also cherished his time working on his grandpa's dairy farm and cruising around on the pontoon with family and friends.

Jake is survived by his loving parents, Michael and Tracy Makela of Finlayson; his sister, Alexis of Finlayson; his niece, Freya of WI, nephew, Emmit of Finlayson; and his dear grandparents, Gary and Virginia Koski, and Donald and Patt Makela all of Finlayson. He will be deeply missed by his extended family, including aunt and uncle Julie and Brad Mackinaw of Cloquet, his uncles Jared Koski of Finlayson and Douglas Koski of New Brighton, along with cousins Samus and Eamonn Mackinaw of Duluth, and numerous great aunts, uncles, and second and third cousins who were more like first cousins to Jake.

To celebrate Jake's life and the moments we shared, a memorial service will be held on August 1, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Methven Funeral Home chapel, with visitation starting at 1:00 PM. Everyone is welcome to join us in honoring Jake, a wonderful son, brother, uncle, and friend, who will be remembered for his adventurous spirit and loving heart.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services of Sandstone, MN.