Douglas Max

Douglas E. Max, 67, of rural Gothenburg, passed away May 17, 2024 at Gothenburg Health after battling complications of surgery following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in April of 2023.

Doug was born June 30, 1956 to Floyd "Earl" and Eunice "Jeanne" Max. The family resided in Cozad until Doug was in the 2nd grade and then they moved to Brady at that time. Doug attended Brady Public Schools graduating with the class of 1974. He excelled in football, basketball, and track receiving  many accolades during his high school career. Doug went on to attend Mid Plains Community College receiving his associates degree in construction technology in 1976.

Doug married the love of his life Crystal Wilson  (Crystie to him) on July 14, 1979 in Gothenburg. The couple moved to their farm home southwest of Gothenburg in January 1981 and have resided there until his passing. To this union, three children were welcomed, Amanda in 1983, Shane in 1985, and Emily in 1991.

In 1977, Doug began his long career at Central NE Public Power and Irrigation District. He operated heavy equipment for many years, and then as the supply canal superintendent, a job he thoroughly enjoyed. Doug continued to work full time for Central up to this last March, when his health left him unable to do his job. 

Doug and Crys started a cow/calf operation in 1997 using 4-H bucket calves as their first cows. The herd was soon a family project. 

Doug was a longtime member of Banner Church southwest of Gothenburg. He loved the Lord and served his church in many roles and on many committees. Doug loved his family and loved doing things with and for them. They were the center of his life, His greatest joys were his five grandsons.

Doug was proceeded in death by his father Earl Max, grandparents Ernest and Mary Bailey and August and Gladys Max, his mother-in-law Glenda Wilson, and his sister-in-law Lisa Wilson.

Left to cherish Doug's memory are his loving wife of 44 years, Crys, daughters Amanda (Travis) Barkmeier of Lexington and Emily (Trent) Prather of Omaha, son, Shane (Kelsey) Max of Gothenburg. Grandsons, Kaden and Kooper Barkmeier, August, Tucker, and Quinten Max, and baby boy Prather due in June. Other survivors include Doug's mom, Jeanne Max of Gothenburg, his brothers, Marty (Becky) Max of Minnesota, and Steve (Jill) Max of Ogallala, father-in-law Robert Wilson of Gothenburg, and brother-in-law Matt Wilson of Gothenburg. He is also survived by many nephews, nieces, cousins, and other extended family, as well as many special friends and co-workers.

Visitation will be held at Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel, Gothenburg, Nebraska; Thursday, May 23, 2024, 1:00 pm - 7:00 pm with the family present from 4:00-6:00 pm.

Funeral Services will be held at Cornerstone Bible Church, Friday, May 24, 2024 at 10:30 am with Pastor Clarence Houser officiating.  

Burial will follow in the Peckham Cemetery, Gothenburg, Nebraska.

Memorials may be given to the Banner Church, 43997 East Banner Road, Gothenburg, NE 69138, My Bridge Radio or donors choice.