Max Eliason

Max Dean Eliason

10/28/1934 ~ 10/23/2024

Max Dean Eliason passed away on October 23, 2024, surrounded by loved ones at his home in Holladay, Utah. Max was born to his beloved parents in Hyrum, Utah, child of Elmer Merlin Eliason and Harriet Reese Eliason. As the son of a rancher in Cache Valley, he learned how to spread it thick and pile it high while laboring alongside his brothers Larry and Dan. They were overjoyed when baby sister LuAnn completed their family in 1948.

In 1936, the family moved to Logan, where Max attended Logan High School with many of his lifelong friends. In 1951 he was nominated to serve as President of the Student Body and the Lt. Colonel and Commander of the ROTC Unit. Following high school, Max was awarded a four-year scholarship to Columbia College in NYC. While there, he was elected to serve as President of the Blue Key Society as well as Student Body President. He enjoyed representing Columbia College at events and conferences and became acquainted with many fine individuals during his time there.

Max was a proud member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After completing college, he served for two years in the Toronto Ontario Canada Mission. He had wonderful experiences there and always carried deep love for those he served and for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was happy to serve later in many church callings, including bishop of the University 18th Ward.

Soon after his return from Canada, Max enrolled in the University of Utah School of Law where he received his Juris Doctorate Degree. He went on to practice as an attorney in the oil and gas industry, working for Skyline Oil Company and later for Texas Eastern. He served as President of the Rocky Mountain Oil and Gas Association, coordinating industry, legislative and public relations efforts. After leaving the oil and gas industry, Max worked as a financial consultant for Smith Barney until his retirement in 1996.

On June 12, 1959, he married the love of his life and eternal companion Joyce Stillman in the Salt Lake Temple. The cattle rancher's son had found the sheep herder's daughter of his dreams! Max was always very clear about the special sparkle he saw in his sweetheart of Sigma Chi. They grew to become a loving and unforgettable couple. Max had a joyful "Yes Dear" attitude that blessed their relationship and the lives of countless others who experienced his selfless example. They raised their children, Mark, Lisa and Brett, in a wonderful and supportive home. Together they richly filled 58 years with unconditional love, heartfelt service and joy-filled family vacations.

Max was a source of great wisdom to those who knew him. He was a true follower of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Max had an unparalleled zest for learning, a profound understanding of the world around him, and a Christlike way of extending compassion to those in need. His smile and laughter could fill the largest room and heal the saddest heart. He used his distinguished booming voice for goodness, encouragement, and truth.

Max is preceded in death by his wife Joyce, parents, brothers, and sister. He is survived by his three children and their spouses, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

We would like to thank all of Max's friends and family who have laughed and loved alongside him, with a special thanks to Max's care team who lovingly helped this monumental man enjoy the sunset years of a full, well-lived life.

Private graveside services have been held, and interment was at Wasatch Lawn Cemetery in Millcreek, Utah.

In memory of Max, spend some extra time with your loved ones and consider drinking a Mountain Dew.