Max Parks, age 84, of Hudson, WI, was welcomed home to the Lord on February 2, 2026. He was born on August 14, 1941, to George and Margaret Parks and was blessed with a life rich in love, laughter, and faith.
Max proudly served his country after enlisting in the United States Navy. He later married his best friend, Mary Kay, and by God’s grace they shared 59 beautiful years of marriage. Their union was a testament to friendship, devotion, and enduring love.
Max and Mary Kay spent most of their lives in Cottage Grove, MN, where they raised their two children, Kim and Jason. He was a longtime and dedicated employee of Northern States Power (NSP) until his retirement.
Known for his warmth, charm, and joyful spirit, Max truly never met a stranger. He had a God-given gift for storytelling and bringing people together. He delighted in good food, meaningful conversation, and music—especially praising God through song as a member in the church choir, Barbershop chorus and quartet.
Max lived his life as an example of kindness, fellowship, and joy. Those who knew him were blessed by his welcoming heart and contagious smile. While he will be deeply missed, his legacy of generosity, friendship and humor lives on in the many lives he touched. We rejoice in the promise that he now rests in eternal peace, hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Max is survived by his beloved wife Mary Kay; children Kim (Greg) Wilson and Jason (Rabecka) Parks; grandchildren Ben Bartels (fiancé Julie Voiles), Maggie Wilson, Charlie Wilson, Thomas Wilson, Hannah Wilson, Madison Parks, Marquis (Carmen) Madden, Kalysta Frank; great granddaughter Maiya and many other extended family members and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents George and Margaret; brother George and sister Pat, Parents-in-law Herman and Lorraine Kehl.
A Celebration of life for Max will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1500 Vine St., Hudson, WI, 54016. Services will be starting at 10 a.m. with fellowship and lunch immediately following the service. All are welcome to join in the funeral procession to Fort Snelling leaving after the luncheon.
We would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful nurses at Hudson Hospital for taking great care of Max.
You can watch Max's service live HERE.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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