Max Degener

WEST FORT ANN -- Max Degener, 99, of Deer Pond Way, died Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2005, at his residence.

Born in Bremerhaven, Germany on Oct. 26, 1906, he was the son of Karl and Louise (Hartman) Degener.

Max came to the United States when he was seventeen and worked at many jobs, the most important job was his skill at painting homes.

For many years, Max, his wife Sadie and family lived in Patten Mills. Many happy times were enjoyed with many picnics by Halfway Brook.

Max was predeceased by his wife, Sadie (Karniewski) Degener, a daughter, Joan Mattison, a brother Walter Degener and a sister, Gertrude Shulte.

Survivors include two sons, Edward Degener and his wife Joan of West Fort Ann and Max Degener and his wife, Maureen of Sarasota, Fla.; a son-in-law, Curtis, Mattison of Fort Ann; his wonderful grandchildren, Christine and Leonard Bush, Brian and Kenneth Mattison, Dale Degener, Debbie Waters, David and Michelle Twiss; his special great-grandchildren, Shaye Anna Meschino, Summer and Taylor Waters, Andrew and Tyler Degener and Jeffrey and Josh Bush; also a cousin that grew up at his home, Don Daut and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 23, 2005, at Mason Funeral Home, 18 George St., Fort Ann with the Rev. Donald Pepper and Pastor Joe Bradford officiating.

Burial will follow at Brown Cemetery, West Fort Ann.

Friends may visit from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

The family has suggested memorials be made to the West Fort Ann United Methodist Church, c/o Ann Coltey, 367 Goodman Road, Fort Ann, NY 12827.

Max was often seen on Deer Pond Way driving his golf cart with Rusty at his side; what fun they had.

Max enjoyed everyday to the fullest; the warm sunshine, beautiful snow and the raindrops on the flowers. We are happy to have shared these special times with him.