Max Doolittle

Age 92, passed away on Sunday October 14, 2018. Max was born on October 2, 1926 in Plainwell, Michigan, the son of Max R. and Dora M. Doolittle. Prior to graduating from high school, Max became a U.S. Marine and honorably served our country during World War II. He returned to Kalamazoo and graduated from Central High School in 1946. After high school, Max worked at his father's jewelry store, as a jeweler and watch maker, and retired after many years. Max was also a member of Gull Lake Yacht Club since 1955 and became an Honorary Life Member of the Gull Lake Country Club, more recently. On April 26, 1947, Max married the love of his life, Mary Josephine Pearson. Max was an avid sailor and sailing instructor at Gull Lake Yacht Club for more than 50 years. He was public address announcer for WMU's Basketball and Track and Field programs for 37 years. Max was preceded in death by his wife, Mary and his parents. He leaves to cherish his memory, his son, Mark (Robin) Doolittle, of Kalamazoo, his sister, Rosalie Nelsen (Tim Hudson) of Comstock, as well as his nieces, Kristin Gearhart, Kandis (Jack) Whitman, great nephews, James Whitman and Seth Richter, as well as many dear friends and colleagues. A gathering to celebrate Max's life will be held on Thursday, October 18 beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home, followed by a graveside committal ceremony with full military honors at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan beginning at 2:00 p.m. with reception to follow at the Gull Lake Country Club. Memorial contributions may be made to Great Lakes Caring Hospice or GLYC Junior Sailing Program, c/o the funeral home. Family and friends may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.