In Memory of Max K. Searls
June 2, 1933 - March 10, 2012
Max was born in Kelso, Washington and grew up in Toutle trapping, playing sports and roaming Mount St. Helens. In 1949, at the age of 16, he bought 160 acres in Canada and dreamed of the day he could move there.
After graduating he served his country in Korea for two years and came home to marry Viola McVey, the love of his life. Son Mike came along in 1956 followed closely by Max Jr. and Jack, finally after 22 years working for Weyerhauser, and a brand new baby girl named Debbie, the family moved to Canada to homestead that 160 acres. Max trapped, logged and raised sheep for years, then decided to buy his first guide area, thus entering a new phase of his life. In 1988, Max, Viola and Debbie moved to McLeese Lake to be close to the guide area.
When he retired, he was introduced to the fine art of knife building by his friend Marty Beets, turning out beautiful hunting knives. Some of these knives ended up in several European countries as well as Mexico and the U.S.
Max lived the life he dreamed of as a kid, making many excellent friends along the way, and always accompanied by at least one good dog.
He was an excellent husband and a wonderful father and friend.
Max died of Leukemia at home surrounded by love. He was predeceased by his parents Barbra & Paul Searls and sister Lois Cooper. Survived by brother Mitch Searls and many nieces and nephews in Washington & other parts of the states, as well as sister and brother in-laws; Pat & Dave Hynning, Doris Claypool, Pete & Pattie McVey, and Guy & Ethel McVey.
Left to carry on in Canada are his loving wife of 56 years Viola, sons: Mike (Susie), Max Jr. (Jackie) and Jack (Terri) as well as daughter Deb and #1 son-in-law Ken, 13 grandchildren & their spouses, and 4 great grandchildren.
There will be no service but anyone wishing to make a donation in Max’s memory can do so to “Mixed Up Mutts”, his granddaughter Mandy’s non-profit dog rescue.
Mixed Up Mutts, Box 266, 108 Mile House, BC, Canada V0K 2Z0
Email: mixedupmuttssociety@gmail.com
Facebook: Mixed Up Mutts
Cell: 250-945-9008 or Vet Clinic: 250-395-3110
LaPrairie’s Funeral Services
entrusted with arrangements. 250-398-9100