Max Mickelsen

Max A. Mickelsen was a dairyman, attorney, husband, father, and grandfather, but he'd say the last three were his most important roles. Born on May 2, 1944, in Petaluma, Max was raised on his family's dairy farm in Two Rock, where he often joked that he had "milk in his veins."
A graduate of Petaluma High School and UC Davis, Max earned his law degree in 1969 and began practicing in Petaluma. Though he loved being a lawyer, he never gave up his roots as a dairyman, managing the family farm until 1999 while continuing his legal career for over 54 years. Max was known for his integrity, generosity in serving his community, and love for Sonoma County agriculture.
Max met the love of his life, Joni Peterson, in 1983, and they married in 1985. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising their daughters, Heidi (Matt) Russello and Jennifer Peterson. Max's greatest joy was his family; he delighted in every moment with Joni, his daughters, and his granddaughters, Mia and Ava.
Max fought a brave battle with cancer, passing away on September 7, 2024, with Joni by his side. He was a kind, gentle, and extraordinary man who will be dearly missed.
Max was preceded in death by his parents, Jean and George. He is survived by his wife Joni, his daughters, granddaughters, and sisters Amy Sabourin (Greg), Ann Bourne (Rich), and Susan Nowacki (Dean), as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Petaluma High School FFA or the Petaluma Educational Foundation in his memory.
A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at 11 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 35 Liberty Street, Petaluma, CA. Private interment will follow at Two Rock Cemetery.