Max J. VanAusdal

Max J. VanAusdal, age 47, passed away suddenly from a heart attack on March 29, 2025 in Murrieta, CA. Max was born July 25, 1977 in Payson, Utah to Julius Max and Sharon Ford VanAusdal. He was raised in Santaquin, Utah where he loved playing baseball and hanging out with his friends and cousins. He graduated from Payson High School in 1995. He then attended UTI in Phoenix, AZ to study Auto ( Diesel) Mechanics. He worked as a mechanic for Smith Ford and Young Living Farms.
He married Jessica Lea Comito on December 12,1997 in Payson, Utah. Their children are Mikayla Angelica (Deonit'a McKay) VanAusdal, Phoenix, AZ, Kitiara Michelle VanAusdal and Julius Max VanAusdal, Murrieta, CA.
Max was a great husband, father, grandpa, son, brother, and friend. He loved his family with his whole heart and soul. He would do anything for his family, friends and his Marines. He was loved and respected and will be missed by many.
Max joined the Marines in November of 2000, He graduated boot camp at MCRD San Diego, CA in February 2001. He was stationed at Camp Pendleton in October of 2001. They then moved to 29 Palms, CA in 2007 and then to Murrieta, CA in 2013 where he was again stationed at Camp Pendleton. He retired in October of 2018 and then began working for MCTOG at the 29 Palms Marine Corps Base. He was currently working for them on a special project at his passing.
Max loved his country, serving 7 tours in the Middle East. He was a decorated Marine who received praise for his work ethic and dedication to his job. Fellow Marines have noted that Max was a valued member of their team and his dedication and camaraderie will be deeply missed. He was an excellent leader. He was always concerned for the Marines he led. He was a great critical thinker, able to quickly discern the real issues and come forth with sound solutions.
He is survived by his wife Jessica, his children Mikayla, Kitiara, and Julius. His grandchildren Maya McKay, Jatari McKay, Ezra McKay, Raiah McKay, Samari McKay, and Elias McKay. His mother Sharon VanAusdal SLC, UT. His siblings Jeannette (Al) Hiatt, Tamie (Greg) Jasperson and David (Deborah) Smith. His in-laws John and Linda Comito. His sister-in-law Jennifer Comito and brother in-law John Comito.
He is preceded in death by his son Tristan Bradley Comito and his father Julius Max VanAusdal.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Murrieta Valley Funeral Home. 24651 Washington Ave. Murrieta, CA 92562.