He was born December 14, 1966, in Springfield, Missouri, the youngest son of David W. and Marigold Chell Bernhardt. He graduated from Rock Bridge HS in 1985 and from Columbia College in 1991 with an English degree.
Max worked for the Department of Corrections in Boonville. Before that, he worked as an election worker and trainer for the Boone County Clerk and for Missouri Auto Auctions. He had also done freelance graphic design. One of his favorite phrases was, “Work smarter, not harder.”
He was a lively, creative, caring fellow who enjoyed visiting and dining with friends, being gamemaster for role-playing games, story telling, and reading sci-fi and fan fiction. Max had a nearly photographic memory and enjoyed debate, as well, and was not afraid of challenges. He co-authored a gaming guide called “And a 10 Foot Pole" published by Iron Crown Enterprises in 1999.
Max was preceded in death by his parents, David and Marigold Bernhardt; and his grandparents, William and Celestine Bernhardt and George and Grace Tousley.
Survivors include two brothers, Keith (Georgette) of Rogersville, Mo., and Ross (Dorothy) of Corpus Christi, Texas; nieces; nephews and many friends.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, from 1:00PM-4:00PM at Shakespeare's South, 3911 Peachtree, Columbia, Missouri.
Contributions in Maxwell's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society.
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American Cancer Society
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