Max was a life mentor for me and so many others. My sister and I accepted an invitation to go for our first sail. It was so fun, especially when we went “fish level”. Max will know what that means! 🙂 Later after some more sailing, I had the opportunity to teach sailing with him at GLYC. His way of teaching was to simply to infect all the kids with his excitement and love of sailing, show them how things worked and what they needed to do. Then, it was time for the kiddos to read the wind, pick a point and set sail. We learned from our mistakes, made corrections and enjoyed the adventure. We learned how to stay calm in those nervous times when someone was getting ready to become “Captain Crunch” while docking their boat. Those sailing lessons were life lessons I carry with me today over 30 years later. Thanks Max... Here’s to your next adventure. Love, hugs and prayers.

Posted by Barbara (Morrison) McNeil on October 20, 2018

Max taught us more than sailing. In fact we will never forget port and starboard because of those crazy shoes Max wore. He was a blessing to the world. RIP Max.

Posted by Elizabeth and Joseph Burkett on October 19, 2018

I met Max about10 years ago at the Scotts Jam Sessions. I always enjoyed talking and dancing with him. He offered to take me sailing, but we were never able to find a day that would work for both of us. Hopefully we will meet again in the afterlife and I will at last get to go sailing with Max. He will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace my friend. Esta

Posted by Esta Walls on October 17, 2018

I was fortunate enough to be one of Max's students during his time teaching sailing at Gull Lake Yacht Club and later an occasional member of his racing crew on Sundays and Wednesdays. He was an incredible teacher, an invaluable mentor, and a good friend to me throughout the 11 years I knew him. He always rooted for me in everything I did, even when it took me far away from Gull Lake. He may have told me the same jokes and stories over and over again when I saw him, but it was always grounding and reassuring to hear them. I will always cherish the memories I have of sailing to the Ice House with him to get ice cream in the summers, as well as all of the other time I spent with him. I can only hope that I am able to do as much good for others in my life as Max did in his. I will miss him greatly.

Posted by Estlin Mendez on October 17, 2018

I would run across Max every few years- always immediately remembered my name and have a wonderful comment about a magician we'd seen years ago. Just a class guy and a light in this world. My sympathy to Mark and all the family, I will miss seeing Max driving around Kzoo in his classy car.

Posted by Roger Bus on October 17, 2018

We will miss you Max! We loved decorating your car to represent the Junior Sailors for the 4th of July parades. I loved our talks lakeside as you waited to get out on the water for the sailing instruction that day. Mike loved having you there! You were always such a bright light of warmth and positivity. I remember your love for thick chocolate shakes and chocolate chips(with 3 chips). I remember for red and green Crocs! I remember your positive comments about Mike and his leadership as an adult and junior sailor instructor. I loved sailing on your boat and hearing your stories about the homes and people of Gull Lake. I especially loved to hear you talk about your beloved Wife Mary. Your love was deep and wide and it was obvious in the way you spoke of her. I am grateful that you are at peace, healthy again, and in paradise with Mary and our Lord. You made such a positive impact on our daughters, all of the children and GLCC and Mike and Me. Thank you for being amazing Max! We love you and will miss you. Until we meet again.??

Posted by Mike, Monique, Emily & Audrey MacQueen on October 16, 2018

A delightful person. I always enjoyed visiting with him.

Posted by zadie jackson on October 16, 2018

I got to know Max and Mary back in the 60\'s at Bethel Baptist Church. Max and his wife started the Bethel Baptist Bowling League in 1965. He bowled in it for 51 years. I got back into bowling after I retired in 2009. There was Max. At the bowling banquets, He always had a joke to tell. He always had a positive outlook on life.

Posted by Greg Schei on October 16, 2018

Max was such an incredible individual, he was loved by our whole family. He never missed an event or celebration that involved my family. He will be missed by all. So glad my boys got to listen to his stories..... unforgettable RIP Max and keep on sailing. Prayers to the family

Posted by Lillian Gibson (Dr Hooks Inc.) on October 16, 2018

It has been alot of years since I last spoke to Max but I always thought he was a fun guy to talk to. My condolences to family and friends. Jamie Simpson

Posted by jamie Simpson on October 16, 2018

Max was an absolutely fantastic person...he impacted so many lives in such a positive way. Our son Jack fell in love with sailing because of Max’s leadership and enthusiasm...blessings to all who loved him and called him family....GLCC has lost a shining light whose legacy will live on...sail on, Max!

Posted by Mimy von Schreiner on October 15, 2018

Max was “One of a Kind”. A kind, humble soul who made a lifetime of memories for me as as a sailor and human being. I will remember him and miss him. May your Red Sails carry on, my friend. Tick Ticknor

Posted by Tick Ticknor on October 15, 2018