Watch Maxine's Funeral

Maxine Nicol, age 74, of Mahnomen, MN, died Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at Oak Crossing in Detroit Lakes.

Maxine Helen Smith was born on December 15, 1946, in Luck, WI, to Orville and Helen (Anderson) Smith.  She grew up in Hudson, WI, where she graduated from high school.  Following graduation, Maxine was united in marriage to Ronald Nicol and together they had four children: Tonya, Tammy, Terry and Tony.

She continued to live in Hudson and was blessed with her additional children, Anthony, Nathaniel, Joel and Alisa.  Maxine moved with her children to the Minneapolis, MN, metro.  She met the love of her life, Alex McKenzie, in the summer of 1979. After a couple years, they moved back to northern Minnesota and lived in the Mahnomen, Bagley, Lengby, Rice Lake areas and Zerkel.  In 1996, they put down roots in Mahnomen where they lived together until Alex's death in 2009.  Maxine continued to make her home in Mahnomen until her declining health forced her to move to the nursing home.

Over the years, Maxine worked a variety of jobs including cooking at the Shooting Star Casino, and the Nelson's Chicken Farm to provide for herself and her family. She was also a humble person who lived life to the fullest.  Maxine truly loved to be around people, especially her grandchildren when she could.  She was the most patient and non-judgmental person you will ever come across.  Maxine also enjoyed traveling and it was never about the destination but always about the journey.  She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Maxine is survived by her children: Anthony Smith, Nathaniel Kieffer, Tony Stelter, Tonya Nicol, Tammy Hall, Terry Kahl and Alisa Kieffer; 17 grandchildren and several great-grandkids.  She was preceded in death by her son, Joel Alan Nicol; her life partner, Alex; and three brothers: Chuck, Tom and Dick Smith.

Memorial Services will be held on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at 1:00 pm at Anderson Family Funeral Home in Mahnomen. A Time of Gathering will be held one-hour prior. Inurnment will be held in Lengby City Cemetery.

Following all Covid-19 safety protocols, and CDC guidelines, social distancing will be practiced. Masks are strongly encouraged.

Please feel free to sign the guestbook, send condolences and view other opportunities which may be available to the public due to COVID-19 restrictions.