Obituary: Max Alexander (1935–2024)

Submitted by Terri Shaffer–
Long time Citrus Heights resident, Max Alexander, went home to be with the Lord on April 21, 2024, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. He lived in Citrus Heights for 83 years.

Max was born in Council Grove, Kansas. In 1937, at just over a year old, his parents, Fred and Nera Alexander, relocated to Roseville driving their ‘32 Chevy. Four years later, in 1941, the family moved to Citrus Heights on property previously owned by the Van Maren family, now known as Stock Ranch. Max attended Sylvan School in the old schoolhouse and graduated from San Juan High School in 1953. During high school, in 1952, he received recognition as All Sierra Foothill League Halfback.

It was in high school that he met the love of his live, Carol Mayes, from Roseville. They were married in 1954 at the Citrus Heights Friends Church located on Old Auburn Road and moved to the family property off Sylvan Road where they raised their three children, Terri, Paul, and Jim. Max and Carol just celebrated their 70th anniversary in February.

After high school Max began his career as a land surveyor with the Department of Water Resources. He later transferred to the California Department of Transportation where he was a civil engineer as a pavement specialist. He retired from the State at age 55.

Max worked hard at his job but enjoyed his free time more. He was an avid backpacker, hunter, camper and fisherman. He loved playing practical jokes, helping others, and traveling. One of his most proud accomplishments was working with Craftsmen for Christ to rebuild homes in Arboga after the 1997 floods. He went on mission trips to Guatemala and Mexico, was recognized for donating 1,676 units of blood, and stayed involved in Citrus Heights politics.

Max was adventurous. After retirement, he took a canoe trip down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon, rode a glider at age 65, ziplined at 70, went skydiving at 75, and climbed half dome four times including on his 80th birthday. He and his wife Carol traveled extensively including trips to Africa, Peru, Galapagos, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Europe, and China.

Most importantly, Max was a man of God. He lived his life as a true disciple of Jesus and is now in his forever home in Heaven where he has a renewed body and memory. He is survived by his wife Carol, daughter Terri, eight grandchildren, and many great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sons Paul and Jim.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Max’s birthday, Thursday, August 8th at 2:00 at the Citrus Heights Friends Church.

*Publisher’s Note: As a free service to family members who have lost a loved one, The Sentinel publishes online obituaries of Citrus Heights residents or former residents at no cost. To submit an obituary, click here