Max Lewis

With a journey that spanned over nine decades of life, laughter, and love, Max Lewis touched the hearts of so many through it all. He was a steadfast source of strength in all circumstances, and his unwavering commitment to excellence reflected the great pride he took in every aspect of his work. Already greatly missed, Max will be forever loved and cherished.

The mid 1930s were not easy years for most living in the United States. The Great Depression was a heavy burden on the shoulders of many Americans, and with conflicts that would eventually explode into WWII already rising overseas, tensions were at an all-time high. During such trying times, it was more important than ever to find happiness in everyday life. Nowhere was there more to celebrate than in the household of Emery Sr. and Bessie (Chafin) Lewis in Omar (Logan County), West Virginia, as they happily announced the arrival of their baby boy. Born on April 26 of 1935, Max was the youngest of three children in the Lewis family and was raised alongside his siblings, Emery Jr. and Joan.

Max’s childhood in the small West Virginia communities of Cow Creek and Upper Omar was shaped by the values and traditions of his generation, where family, hard work, and community were at the heart of daily life. His father was employed by the West Virginia Coal & Coke Company as a member of its direct current transfer team, while his mother devoted herself to caring for their home and family as a homemaker. Max discovered a lifelong appreciation for music when he joined the school band as a trumpet player in middle school. He remained a dedicated member throughout high school, continuing to perform until graduating in 1953. He had fond memories of riding his bike around town, building a nightly campfire with his friends, and going to the company store for candy. It was during his childhood that Max built the foundation for the solid work ethic that would serve him well throughout his entire life. He had his own paper route, and he would see how far he could throw the papers up to the houses on the hill. In addition, he worked as a delivery boy delivering groceries for the company store. Max was an active Boy Scout and, through dedication and perseverance, earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He spent many memorable summers at Scout camp on Blair Mountain where he developed lifelong skills, friendships, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Max left West Virginia in the summer of 1954, eager to see what the future held in store.

As a young man, Max proudly served in the National Guard for six years. During his service, he was a valued member of the honor guard and served as a bugler, performing morning wake-up calls. He was also recognized as an excellent marksman.

A new and exciting chapter was unfolding in Max’s life as he met a remarkable young woman, named Garnet Coburn. The two were first introduced through friends. Max and Garnet went on a first blind double date to a movie. Garnet was drawn to Max’s kindness and thought he was a perfect gentleman, and Max was just as smitten. The two were united in marriage in 1959.

In order to provide for himself and those who depended on him, Max began his career working at Panelyte Laminated Plastics. He soon made the move to the Upjohn Company. Max served as a lead chemical operator, a job that involved working in the Fine Chemical Division, specifically working mostly with steroids. Max was highly respected by his colleagues and supervisors alike, earning a reputation for his strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to doing every job well. He retired from Upjohn in 1992.

Of all the blessings in Max’s life, his family was undoubtedly his greatest treasure. In 1960, Max and Garnet joyfully welcomed their daughter, Kathy, into the world, followed by the arrival of their son, Craig, in 1963, completing their loving family. Max embraced fatherhood wholeheartedly, dedicating himself to raising his children with love, guidance, and unwavering support. As Kathy and Craig grew, Max remained a steady and reassuring presence in their lives. He was always there to offer encouragement, lend a listening ear, and provide the kind of support they could always depend on.

Max was thrilled to become a grandfather and later in life a great-grandfather. He adored his grandkids, Kelley, Katie, Olivia, and Zachary, and he had a special bond with each of them. Max was equally devoted and loving as a great-grandfather to Logan, Savannah, Sophia, Brooklyn, Vincent, and Violet. He cherished the opportunity to share his love, wisdom, and guidance with each of them, creating special memories that will be treasured for generations to come. There was truly nothing Max would not do for his loved ones. He felt incredibly blessed to watch his family grow and flourish, and he cherished the joy, pride, and countless memories they brought to his life.

During their retirement years, Max and Garnet enjoyed spending time in Florida and Texas, creating many wonderful memories together. Max constantly gave freely of his time, talents, and energy in service to others throughout his life. His generous spirit and genuine desire to help those in need were evident in all he did. During his winters in Texas, Max volunteered in Mexico, putting his craftsmanship skills to work on construction projects that improved the lives of others.

In his leisure time, Max found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed trying his luck at the casino, watching classic Western shows and movies, and spending time with the many friends and family members he cherished throughout the years. A naturally social person, Max loved gathering with friends over coffee and treasured the meaningful connections he built with those around him. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping, gathering around campfires, and creating special memories with his family. Some of Max's happiest moments were spent taking his grandchildren on lawn tractor rides, pulling them behind in a wagon with a tag-along, creating memories filled with laughter and the simple joys of being together. Max also enjoyed coin collecting, maintained a lifelong fascination with old airplanes, and appreciated learning about their history and craftsmanship. He remained passionate about music as well, continuing to share his love of the trumpet by playing in various bands throughout Michigan and Texas over the years.

In his later years, Max volunteered as a bugler through the VFW, performing "Taps" at military funerals. It was a meaningful way for him to honor fellow veterans and pay his final respects to those who had served their country. He was also an active volunteer with the Lions Club, where he generously gave his time in service to his community, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping others.

When reflecting on the full and meaningful life of Max Lewis, it is easy to recognize a man who devoted himself to humbly serving others. A loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Max was a true example of integrity, honesty, and compassion. His generosity touched countless lives, and his kindness left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Although life will never be the same without Max, he leaves behind a treasured legacy of hard work, selflessness, and love that will continue to inspire his family and friends for generations to come.

Max Lewis of Richland, age 91, died on August 1, 2026. He was born April 26, 1935, in Omar (Logan County), West Virginia to Emery Sr. and Bessie (Chafin) Lewis. He was preceded in death by his son Craig Lewis, brother Emery Jr. (Wilma) Lewis, and sister Joan (Bernie) Edwards. Surviving are his wife Garnet Lewis; children: Kathy Goldsberry; grandchildren: Kelley (Nick) Hampton, Katie (Paul) Scott, Olivia (De’Von) Williams, and Zachary (Bethany) Lewis: great-grandchildren: Logan, Savannah, Sophia, Brooklyn, Vincent and Violet; and many nieces and nephews.

Please join us for a Life Story Visitation on Saturday August 15, 2026 at 10:30 am at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. A service and reception will follow in the Life Story center where food, drinks, and stories can be shared. Burial at Mount Everest Cemetery. Celebrate Max’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association of Michigan.