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William Maxwell "Max" Puckett
3/18/1982 –10/29/2013
Max was born March 18, 1982 in Sturgis, Michigan and moved to Auburn, Calif. as a toddler.
He attended Bowman Elementary School, graduated from Placer High School in 2000 and received his B.S. degree from Sacramento State University. He completed his college internship as a staff reporter for the Auburn Journal, a business his late grandfather B.W. Cassidy co-owned and published for many years.
He was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor at the age of three. Max fought the good fight during his short life to beat cancer and meet the challenges of the side effects of the treatment.
He was much loved by his mother Kelly Cassidy Richardson and husband Peter Hacker of Auburn, father Robert Puckett, Jr. and wife Suzi of Sturgis, Mich., grandparents Dr. Robert Puckett, Sr. and wife Jean of Sturgis, MI, sister Amy Savacool and family, Michael, Anna and Robby of San Diego, and sister Anne Puckett of Sutter Creek, Calif. He also leaves behind his special Aunt Laurie Cassidy and Uncle Erik Ebert of Meadow Vista, many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends that will miss him greatly.
Max was killed in a motorcycle accident October 29, 2013, in Sacramento, CA. He was a loyal and compassionate friend to so many. Remembrances may be made to the Placer Community Foundation, P.O. Box 9207, Auburn, CA 95603, to be donated to a charity close to Max's heart.
God speed to a dear and wonderful man.
A memorial service will be held at Chapel of the Hills, 1331 Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA 95603, Wednesday, November 6th at 2pm. We welcome Max's friends, acquaintances and the many Auburn friends. It will mean so much. Please sign the online guestbook at www.chapelofthehills-auburn.com
83 Entries
I have been reading these beautiful and memorable notes from so many for the first time since Max's accident. It's overwhelming and a deeply gratifying experience. My son was the strongest, most gentle man I have known. Your lovely posts are proof of a warm, gentle and kind person that he became. I believe your posts show understanding of him to the highest degree. It's so beautiful for his mother to read. I thank Max for the man that he became. He did over come many health issues at an early age. He showed compassion and caring from that early age of 4. We were lucky to have him in our lives. I remember him daily in my life's mantra of love, giving and compassion. You are all remembered as well. Thank you for your deep love of a life well lived.
October 15, 2017
Dear Kelly and Peter,
I cannot tell you how deeply saddened I was when Peter called to give me the news a few days ago, and it seems to be an unbelievable loss. Having known Peter for nearly 40 years, and lived through his sons' deaths with him, I was shocked that your mutual newfound love and happiness would be shattered by this tragedy. Max was so charming at your wedding, and radiated such a peaceful, tranquil soul. He is now an angel, and I hope you both feel his spirit watching over you.
[Our entry appeared previously, but without our names.)
~Susan Haynes & Robert Borson, Birmingham, Alabama
Susan Haynes
December 1, 2013
My condolence to your family. May the "God of comfort" (1st Cor. 1:3) continue to provide strength, endurance, and comfort to your family during your time of grief and sorrow.
Monica
November 29, 2013
Dear Kelly and Peter,
I cannot tell you how deeply saddened I was when Peter called to give me the news a few days ago, and it seems to be an unbelievable loss. Having known Peter for nearly 40 years, and lived through his sons' deaths with him, I was shocked that your mutual newfound love and happiness would be shattered by this tragedy. Max was so charming at your wedding, and radiated such a peaceful, tranquil soul. He is now an angel, and I hope you both feel his spirit watching over you.
November 25, 2013
Please accept my condolences for your loss. I can only imagine if Jesus were here today, he would be weeping with you, as he did when he lost his friend, Lazarus. What a happy moment it must have been when they were reunited! Your day will come! - John 11
Susan Jones
November 22, 2013
Hi Kelly-
I just read about your beautiful little boy Max that you brought back from the brink with his cancer so he could find his way in life.It sounds like he fondly affected many in his short life, my heart breaks for you on the loss of your son. Anything, absolutely anything I can do for you, please call anytime.
Christie Jane Kesseler
November 13, 2013
Dearest Kelly and Bob, I just found out today, via my daughter Brianna, about the accident, and death, of your dear Max. I have not seen him since he was first born. But, I DO remember him, and all of you. So many years spent together, in our younger lives...I was so shocked, and deeply saddened, tonight, when I found out. I cried, too. There are no words that will comfort you. This, I know. But, I do want you ALL to know that I remember, and I CARE. I always have, although, silently. GOD bless Max, in heaven. And, all of the Cassidy/Puckett family. Susan McNabb [email protected]
Susan McNabb
November 12, 2013
My condolences to the family, may you find peace and comfort in God's promise. (24:15)
Robert
November 12, 2013
Thinking of you Kelly at this sad time.
Suzie moore
November 9, 2013
Max, was a very special human being! I could sense it the moment we first met. We always had a electric conversation full of spark and inspiration. I recently gave him my CD, and he was very excite to hear it. We would talk at length about all sorts of life events, gentled natured and compassionate and patient. He was a angel on earth. I am saddened that he lost his life so tragically, but he fought for it so corageously by overcoming the cancer and many things that affect us all on a daily basis, however he was the shine in the world that will always be present by those who lives he touched. My prayers go out to his family and friends. Peace Max!!!
Jahari Sai
Jahari Sai
November 8, 2013
My heart goes out to Max's family & friends. The world is a much better place because you were in it Max. I will see you again someday in that big meeting in the sky.
Dianne Terranova
November 7, 2013
Dianne Terranova
November 7, 2013
Kelly.... I am soooooo sorry for your loss. I am in my own little world right now so did not see that there was a service for him yesterday. I, in fact, drove right by it and did not know who the service was for. I would have come even in my work clothes if I had known. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and forgive me for not being there. I cannot believe what an awful month October has been. Love you Kelly........you are in my prayers, Patti (Ellis) Bedell
Patti Bedell
November 7, 2013
I have known Max for the past 7 years. He was one of my closest and dearest friends. I will always miss the way he came into a room. His smile and laugh I will never forget. He had such a unique personality that you couldn't help but love. He made such an impact in not just my life but many others. I am thankful for the time my family and I have had with him and the memories throughout these years that I will always cherish. He is irreplaceable and will always be missed by so many. I love you Max!!
To Max's family: I am so sorry for your loss. Max was an amazing person that touched so many of our hearts and lives. Thank you for the beautiful service. He will always be loved and will never be forgotten! He is an angel now looking down upon all of us.
Elizabeth Allen
November 7, 2013
Friends
November 7, 2013
To My Dear Friend Kelly:
I am so glad I got to know Max as a beautiful child and fine young man. He had accomplished to much in his short life. From what his supervisor said about him, he was a 'natural' newspaper man and great writer. I know you are and will always be very proud of him..... He will be greatly missed !
Sincerely, Melody Roy
November 7, 2013
Kelly and family,
Very sorry to hear this news from my mom. She saw Max a lot when he was coming to her lab as a child. I only saw Max a few times, but I do know how special he was to Laurie and Eric and obviously so many other people. Wishing you peace and strength.
Marsha McAnulty
November 6, 2013
Kelly, I would like to express my deepest
sympathies on the loss of your son and let you know that my thoughts are with you during this very sad and difficult
time.
Silvia Gordon
Silvia Gordon
November 6, 2013
Kelly and family- I never know what to say at times like this. Just know that we are thinking of you and wish for you the strength that it takes to go forward.
Bill and Tomme Jo Dale
November 6, 2013
Dear Kelly and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Carmel Barry-Schweyer
November 6, 2013
We are so sorry for your loss Kelly and Bob and family. From the first time that Max came in to both of our life's, I have called him Maxamillion. Because he is and was one in a million type of friend. He never had a bad thing to say to any one, his sense of humor was so much fun, when he would share it was always from the heart. When his friends need assistance with any thing he was there for them. He loved the lets go for a ride on his bike and end up where ever with Jimmy.
I enjoyed having him around and I made sure he knew it. He was in most of the men groups having fun, he could be in with Jimmy and all his guys. Before he would leave his friends he always wanted a hug. Bless his heart. Jimmy and I love him and will miss him so much.
Belynda Kwiatkowski
November 6, 2013
Kelly and family I am sorry to hear of your loss, and send my best to you all at this difficult time
Richard Scott
November 6, 2013
Max made me feel like part of the family whenever I met him, I'm so sad to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you all xx
Alison Reed
November 6, 2013
Kelly, I really can't find the words, having sons myself, I can only imagine your loss. I've seen how much love & support you've given over the years to your children. My son Toby got to know Max & had admiration for him. My prayers are with you.
Ernie Tenderich, Auburn, CA.
November 5, 2013
We extend our deepest condolences to you, Kelly, and to your family. We are deeply sorry to hear of Max's passing. May the love and prayers from your friends and family see you through this horrific time.
Dana & Rhonda Gravatt
November 5, 2013
We desire to send condolences to the Cassidy and Puckett families. Our thoughts and prayers go out to family and friends. Max shared many a family gathering which we will miss but will remember. Max may you always rest in peace. Shirley & Ralph Richardson
Ralph Richardson
November 5, 2013
My love and prayers are with Kelly, Peter, and the family.
Barbara Jensen
Barbara Jensen
November 5, 2013
I enjoyed meeting Max at Kelly's and Peter's wedding last Summer.I will always remember how much he enjoyed sitting behind the wheel of the Cobra.
Buzz Weldy
November 5, 2013
Kelly, may I extend to you and your family my deepest sympathy at this time and say that my thoughts have been with you since I learned of your tragic loss of Max.
Sincerely,
John Griffin
John Griffin
November 5, 2013
Kelly, Dad and I were so sorry to hear about Max. Our prayers are with you and your family.Jodi Todd and Bill Furlong.
November 5, 2013
We were so glad that Max was a such a close friend (like a brother) to Michael and Brooke. Knowing that he was a part of their lives in California was a blessing, he will be missed.
Kathy and Wally Ogorek
November 5, 2013
Kelly so sorry for your loss, just know we will have you in our prayers .
Gordon @Linda Johnson
November 4, 2013
I've known Max since I was his second grade teacher at Bowman School, 1989-90. Max was a determined, popular boy with many friends. His two older sisters were protective of their little brother, who had already had to be strong and resilient, although he certainly didn't want anyone to define or limit him because of his health issue. It has been a pleasure to continue to know Max as grew up and became this wonderful young man. Max is memorable and an inspiration.
Karin Richardson
November 4, 2013
I never had the pleasure of meeting Max, although I have known Kelly most of my life. We are given a gift, and we unwrap it, enjoy it without expecting to loose or break it because it is precious to us. Max is not broken, and he is being enjoyed by those who preceded him in death. He has left a lasting memory on the family and people who knew him. I would say Max led a good life. My sincere sentiments and love to his family.
Teri Packard
November 4, 2013
Kelly, I'm so sorry for the loss of your Sweet Son Max. God bless you as you travel through these very tough times. So so very sorry for your loss.
Maudelle Coleman - Carlson
November 4, 2013
His 'interesting" sense of humor and welcoming smile will be missed, but will live long in our hearts. Thank you for sharing him with us...may the days ahead, bring to mind those precious memories and bring comfort to your family.
Jim & Janet Thiel
November 4, 2013
Dearest Kelly,
I was not as fortunate as many have stated,to have known Max.To know you is to have known him. Your love for him is reflected through so many smiles and kind words you have for all those you meet. I can only imagine Max inherited all of the qualities his mother continues to exhibit to us all. The search for you a couple of days back was my heartfelt way of showing you how much I love you and transfer all the love and peace I could share with you. I know it was not enough to take away the pain and sorrow of this sad event, but know my heart will continue to follow you. Love and peace to you and your family.
J.Randall Smith, Auburn,California
November 4, 2013
To Max's family,
We are so sorry for the loss of Max. So wish we were able to have seen him when he was back here in Michigan. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, so sad that another cousin was taken so soon. We love you all, forever and always.
Barbara Niblock
November 4, 2013
I an so sorry to hear of your loss...i have only had the chance to meet max in a few occasions but have know Anne for many years...he was a great man. My prayers are with you.
nichole (nici) mastrolia (smathers)
November 3, 2013
Kelly, I am so sorry for the loss of your dear son, Max. My prayers are with you and your family. God bless you and comfort you. Much love, Delette
Delette Ziegelmann-Jackson
November 3, 2013
Dear Kelly and Family,
So very sorry to hear of the passing of Max. We did not know him, but as parents, our hearts are broken for you. We wish you peace at this most difficult time.
The Baldo's
November 3, 2013
Dear Kelly,
So sorry to hear about your son. We remember him as a little boy, and the joy and worry your folks had about the cancer. We grieve with you over this loss, and you and your family are in our prayers.
Much love,
Marty Overmiller, Dulcie Robinson and family.
Marty Overmiller
November 3, 2013
I only met Max once when my daughter, Justine Gapinski, brought him over to our house in late Spring 2013. My husband Bob and I really enjoyed meeting him and he was such an interesting and nice person with a big smile. I know he was a good friend to my daughter and I appreciated that so much. We are so sorry for your familiy's loss! Lanette Reeves
Lanette Reeves
November 3, 2013
Prayers and healing energy headed your way. When Max entered a room, his smile lit the place up! Truly a gentle soul. ..
Mary Fields
November 3, 2013
I'm so sorry for your loss . I pray for comfort for you and your family.
Francie Elliott
November 2, 2013
I'm so sorry to hear of this terrible news. Sending love and warmth to Kelly, and the rest of the family!
Mora Rowe
November 2, 2013
There is gentleness, strength in self and empathy for others in those who have overcome much. Max had that, and his good humor. We who love him miss him here and remember...
Eric Richardson
November 2, 2013
I'm sorry for your loss. May the memories of Max bring you comfort. He will be missed by many. Such a kind and friendly young man.
Evangelina Rivas
November 2, 2013
I never had the chance to tell you how much I appreciated seeing your smile. You always came up to say hi. I will miss you.
Kari Wilkinson
November 2, 2013
I'm sorry for your loss. Ralph Parker
Ralph Parker
November 2, 2013
I WILL MISS YOU MAX. IT WAS TO SOON BUT I GUESS GOD SAID " THAT'S ENOUGH YOU'VE EARN YOUR ANGEL WINGS. COME HOME NOW."
MAX WAS TRULY A GOOD GUY. AND LOVED BY MANY.
VICKI REYNOSO
November 2, 2013
Thoughts and prayers for Max' family.
Dexter Dong
November 2, 2013
I am sincerely rocked by the news of Max, He was one of the most tender and kind men I have ever known.....We used to go play pool. He was very serious about school though....I would call him and ask if he wanted to go play and most often he would say, "no, I have to study and do school work." He was someone you just wanted to hold in your arms...wish I could do that now...My deepest sympathies to all his friends and family.
Lorraine Van Buren
November 2, 2013
Dear Amy and family,
Thanks for sharing your brother's obituary. He sounds like and amazing man. Heartfelt condolences to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Many in the San Diego Psoriasis Community are thinking of you and sending their love.
OX
Stephanie Gearhart (and family)
November 2, 2013
You are already missed very, very much by your family and many friends Max. But you will always be remembered for your kindness, smile, caring for others, willingness to spread fun and joy and friendships you made with so many. God bless your family and friends in this very difficult time. <3
Jim Dickinson
November 1, 2013
I'm sorry to hear about Max. My condolences to the family & friends. Didn't know him well, but liked his presence & spirit.
Dean Stern
November 1, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you Kelly. We were so saddened to hear about Max's accident. I can only imagine the heartbreak and we weep with you for this loss.
Richard and Rebecca Smallridge
November 1, 2013
To Max's family: I am truly sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you.
Stacey Browning
November 1, 2013
I'm deeply sorry to the family of Max.
and to the one's that knew him. Max will
be miss by many. We will be together again someday.
Love ya Max
November 1, 2013
Max and I became friends in high school, in the Academic Decathlon club. He was one of the coolest fellow nerds on our team. His sense of humor and personality made him a ton of fun to be around. I am very sad to hear about his passing and I hope his family can feel some comfort in celebrating the amazing person he was. He achieved some incredible things in his life.
Maggie Bender-Johnson
November 1, 2013
Max you were a great and fun person to be around. You will be missed.
Javier Jimenez
November 1, 2013
So Sorry Kelly to hear about your son.. My heart and prays are with you in this time.. Take Care Kim Poiesz
Kim Poiesz
November 1, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers to Kelly, Laurie, and Erik and to all of the others affected by this tragedy. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Melissa Blide
November 1, 2013
Max was my favorite of Laura's playmates....never had to wear a referee hat when those two were at play, just hours of fun together. He was a quirky, gentle soul whose presence will be sorely missed. Love to all your family and sweet peace to Max....
Janet & David Crosby (Auburn, CA)
November 1, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. Please open your heart to all the love and peace that I am sending you and your family on this sad day. God bless you and all your family! Love, Sarah Martin
Sarah Martin
November 1, 2013
It was my great pleasure to work with Max. Though we communicated mostly over phone or text, I could tell he was a terrific guy, and I could always rely on him. He is already greatly missed, but we are all glad we knew him.
Ken Kiunke
November 1, 2013
Max was an absolute joy to work with -- he was smart, easy going and always smiling. I feel blessed to have been able to know him. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Corrie Pelc
November 1, 2013
Such a huge loss for so many. Love and prayers to the family and extended family.
Mitzi Collins
November 1, 2013
Dear Max, Thank you so much for your courage and your sweet light-hearted approach to living. You did very well, and the thought of your life will continue to inspire.
Dinah Childress
November 1, 2013
I was a student teacher at Bowman in Max's kindergarten class. He impressed me then with his upbeat attitude and intellect in spite of having a brain tumor. I've thought about him over the years and am glad to know about his many accomplishments! Peace be with him and all his many friends and family.
Patricia Moore
November 1, 2013
Max was and always be in my heart! He was always happy no matter what was going on. I will miss him, my family will miss him. The Gibson Family
Corey Gibson
November 1, 2013
My condolences to Max's family. How lucky you are to have had him in your lives. Max was a wonderful person. Max never sat around waiting for things to happen, he was out there joining in. I am lucky to have known Max and will miss him.
Sherree Delis
November 1, 2013
Max we loved you so much... You have been such an important part of our lives for so long... We have lost our brother and our best friend... We cannot imagine life without you and we were looking forward to you being "Uncle Max" to our little one. Michael and I are torn to pieces over this loss. You were the most generous, loving, funny and intelligent human being and the world will never be the same. We will carry you in our hearts forever xoxoxo
Brooke & Michael Ogorek
November 1, 2013
Max had a wondrous combination of courage, humility and joy. We thank him for his friendship. He was taken way too soon. While we cannot be in Auburn with you, we hope you will feel our spirit supporting you. With much love to each of you, The Deddens Family.
Marcia Deddens
November 1, 2013
Max was the definition of a "loyal" person an friend! He loved to live life fully an cherished the fun that life brought him daily! My deepest sympathies go out to his family an all his friends! Max meant a lot to me an was always an amazing friend, greeting me with his warm smile an witty joke!! He will be greatly missed, but of course NEVER forgotten!!!
Justine Gapinski
November 1, 2013
Max was a wonderful and caring man, I loved him greatly. He will be missed by me and countless others. My love and prayers go out to his family.
Nancy McOwen
November 1, 2013
Max was always friendly with a warm smile every time I saw him. Rest in peace Brother.
Gil O.
November 1, 2013
Rest in peace Brother.
Gil O.
November 1, 2013
I am a step-cousin of Max. My prayers and thoughts go out to our entire extended family as well as his mother's family, his friends and all who were touched by him. I am so sorry for this horrible loss. Sending love from Michigan during this difficult time.
Lindsey Larivee
November 1, 2013
My sympathies go out to Max's family. He was one of the good guys, and I was lucky to have known him.
Stacy Taylor
November 1, 2013
Rest in peace, Max.
Vicki Kurtz
November 1, 2013
Sending much love and support to Max's family. Your community is here for you. Jessica Hubbard
Jessica Hubbard
November 1, 2013
I worked at the Sacramento County Sheriff's department. Max would come in almost everyday as part of his job. He always had a smile and was positive about everything. My condolences to the family.
Jay Rogers
October 31, 2013
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