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Max Howard Raymond

September 9,1945 - September 21,2014

Max Howard Raymond passed away September 21, 2014 in his own bed, held in the loving arms of his wife Laurie, with Laurie’s family and hospice there for support. Their three dogs were snuggled on the bed with them as Laurie hugged him and whispered to him how much he was cherished. In the 43 years they were married, Max dedicated himself to caring for Laurie with extraordinary tenderness and love, as she faced health issues and declining mobility.

Max grew up in Gladwin, Michigan. His mother, Maxine, was an accomplished amateur artist, and his dad, Howard, was a realtor who loved to explore (often with a metal detector in hand). He enjoyed an idyllic childhood, with great freedom to enjoy the natural world around him.

Max met Laurie at Michigan State University. There was a dance at Case Hall where Laurie lived. After watching others dance through the evening, Laurie returned to her room, thinking she would never be asked to dance. She crawled into bed when she strongly sensed she was being told to get back to the event. Putting her faith in the voice that has often guided her, she got dressed and returned to the dance where she met the love of her life.

The start of their life together had to be put on hold for a time as Max served his country in Vietnam. Laurie did her student teaching and graduated from MSU, as she prayed for Max’s safe return home. Upon completion of her graduation she secured a position at Rodger’s Elementary, the school Laurie’s father attended, where she made a difference in children’s lives for 32 years.

Max returned from the war and they were married August 7, 1971 at the Methodist church in Bellaire. Although Max had a great love of music, and a degree in Communications, he found his calling creating orthotic equipment. He worked for 32 years at Teter Orthotics, where his ingenuity and attention to detail made many people’s lives more comfortable.

Laurie and Max eventually bought a home in Rapid City where they have lived for the past 35 years. This was their haven, where they enjoyed feeding the abundant wildlife, and delighted in the antics of their four cats and three dogs. Their house is filled with treasures; beautiful wooden boxes Max created from scraps of wood, artifacts his father found, music and books. Max always had a fascinating story, and his wealth of knowledge was a legend with family and friends. Max was known for his ability to do anything, and his gentle spirit and caring nature enriched all our lives. Even on his last day, he was making us laugh with his quick wit.

In addition to his wife Laurie, Max will be missed by his in-laws: John Weeman Jr., Jan and John Andretich, and Sandy and Rich Ewasek. He was thebeloved uncle of Julia Weeman, Jenny Andretich, Andrea and Laurie Ewasek. Their animal companions, dogs Rue, Harley, Suzie and cats Cody, Hannah, Bonnie and Betsy feel the great loss of his passing as well. Anyone who was lucky enough to know Max had their life enriched. In keeping with their quiet lives, the family will not be having any services. In lieu of flowers, if you wish to honor him, two of his favorite charities are Best Friends Animal Society www.bestfriends.org and The Elephant Sanctuary www.elephants.com/ Please visit Max's webpage at www.lifestorynet.com to sign the guest book and share a message with his family.