James Lewis "Max" Maxson

James L. Maxson, 69, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016.

Jim, "Max" as he was known by friends, was born March 10, 1946, to parents Lewis and Elizabeth Maxson at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. After the untimely death of his mother he was raised by his father and stepmother, Lolas.

Max was one of a kind. He was a husband, father, brother, dear friend, disc jockey, Silvertip skydiver, jump master, adventurer, star-gazer, locomotive engineer and veteran. He was many things, but above all Max was a smart, loving, kind, hilarious, compassionate man who will be missed by many.

Raised in Missoula, Max was a genuine Montana guy. Growing up, summer vacations were spent at the family cabin in Tom Miner Basin doing "projects" orchestrated by his dad and uncles, which included building rafts to explore the beaver ponds, constructing Fort Sawtooth, as well as hiking and exploring. Sawtooth Lodge was Max's favorite retreat, over the years he shared the magic and beauty of Paradise Valley with his friends and family. There was the annual "Columbus Day Boogie," night hikes for the adventurous, expeditions to Chimney Rock, and swimming at Chico and "The River of Fire."

Max loved kids. Being one himself, he always had some treat to share with his nieces, nephews and other children. He was notorious for bringing balsawood airplanes to gatherings and we will never forget the "mongoose." Max cherished his children and loved them unconditionally. He was their greatest teacher and biggest fan. Shauna, Brittany, Chelsey and Robert admired and deeply loved their dad and they all shared a unique bond.

Max enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved hearing and embellishing stories. He had a child-like curiosity and was interested in everyone who crossed his path. Max loved to socialize; Whether it be, grabbing a cold one at Charlie B's, burgers at the Mo Club or Tuesday lunch at the Senior Center. As a retiree, Max dedicated his time to "checking up" on his children and friends, and helping those he loved … he had a way of brightening everyone's day.

Max graduated in 1965, from the last class as it was known as, Missoula County High School. He was senior student council president and recently emceed his 50th high school reunion. Max had a flare for the dramatic and was awarded best actor in the state of Montana his senior year. Upon graduation he attended the University of Montana until joining the Army National Guard, 101st Airborne training at Fort Bragg, South Carolina. After serving, he went to work for Burlington Northern Railroad and retired from Montana Rail Link after 37 years.

In 1983, he married Kelly Grandy. They had a daughter, Brittany and later divorced. In 1986, he met then married Sharon Hutchens and their blended family consisted of four children: Shauna Hutchens, Brittany Maxson, Chelsey and Robert Maxson.

Max is preceded in death by his father, mother and stepmother. He leaves behind his loved ones, wife Sharon; children Brittany, Chelsey, Robert (Rachel) and Shauna Lopez (Joey, children – Teyah and Chaz).

Also, surviving are siblings, Margaret Selway, Patricia Gauer (Glenn), Bobby (Eileen), Dee Gregory (Clayton), and Nancy Maxson. Max is loved by many nieces and nephews.

Signing off, "J.L., All the Hits, All the Time."

A ceremony with a "Skydiver Wake" to follow will be held at The Missoula Children's Theater in Missoula at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 5. Please bring stories and copies of photographs. In lieu of flowers please make donations to The Boys and Girls Club of Missoula in memory of James Lewis 'Max' Maxson.


Read James Maxson's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.