To some of his friends and family, he was known as Tom; to others who were friends of Bill W., they remember him as Max 8888; his dear wife, Ellen, called him “Just Tom”. Tom Max was born in Chicago, IL on April 7, 1943, oldest son of the late Chester “Max” and Rosemary Maxymek. He grew up with his brothers Rick and Jack Maxymek (both now deceased), and among many extended family and life-long friends. Tom passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on September 11, 2026.

Tom served in the Marine Corps From 1961 to 1965. During his time in the Marines, he served on ship during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and while stationed in Kodiak, Alaska during 1964 he saved lives and property after the largest North American earthquake hit with a magnitude of 9.2. The quake set off a tsunami that washed much of the city into the sea. Tom fulfilled his duties with pride and was awarded the Naval Unit Commendation Medal for his efforts during the quake and tsunami.

On July 1, 1967, Tom married his dear wife, Dorothy Ellen (Schwalbach) and enjoyed more than fifty-nine wonderful years with her. She and Tom welcomed three lovely daughters and cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren during those years. “I hope they remember all of the laughter we had sharing stories together.”

Max and Ellen owned and operated several businesses in the Fox Valley, including the Credit Bureau of Neenah–Menasha, Rapid Printing, Credit Bureau of the Fox Cities, AMCR Corporation, the Choice, and Gord’s Bar. He began his entrepreneurial enterprises by operating the Cottage Inn in Waukegan, Illinois; and established a boat restoration company called High Teak, in Newport Beach, California.

Having operated many businesses together over the years, Tom shared, “I want to thank Ellen for her faithful support. She was an intricate and helpful partner in each of them. I have also been so grateful to the rest of my family: I am thankful that you allowed me to pursue all of my ambitions and adventures. I love you all dearly.”

Max enjoyed sailing, restoring antique furniture, and traveling throughout the U.S. with his family. He was especially proud of his affiliation with Apricity, formerly known as the Mooring House, where he served on the board of directors.

Tom is survived by three daughters - Kathleen (Dan), JoEllen (Jim), and Sara— and grandchildren Megan and TJ; Jordan and Ale; Parker (Theresa), Lily, and Carson—and great-grandchildren, Josie and Jensen, who were all a joy to him. “I have been richly blessed to have such a great family and such a good life. I am not a religious man but I do recognize that I have a caring and loving God who has brought me peace and serenity and has eased the challenges and hard times in my life. I will surely see you all on the other side of life.”

Ellen, the girls, and Tom are deeply grateful to all of the genuine and responsive caregivers at Compassus Hospice Services and Home Instead Services. Many of you became part of our family this past year. To all of his dear friends and extended family, you made my husband and our dad’s life fuller; he was deeply moved by your calls, visits, cards, texts, and hugs. “I am so blessed!” he often said.

Please join our family at a service of remembrance to be held at Wichmann Funeral Homes Tri-County Chapel on Saturday October 3, 2026, at 3:00pm. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 1:00pm until the service begins. The memorial service will be livestreamed.

“I love you all and will miss you all.” —Tom “Max”

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Apricity 4764 Integrity Way, Suite 312, Appleton, WI 54913