MAX STILLWAGON, 52, died at 4:55 AM on Sunday, June 4, 2023, after a brief illness. The cause of his death was right heart failure. His last act was to give the gift of life through organ donation and his kidneys will go to help two recipients. His son, Hunter Stillwagon, deeply loved by Max, was joined by his brother, Lukas Banzhaf, tremendously close to Max, and Hunter's mother, Tonya Watkins, for the Walk of Honor through the ICU to the doors of the operating room for the organ donation. Hunter appreciates that his stepfather, Geoff Byrne, Edgar Banzhaf, Michael Anderson, Adam Ackrs, Ed Klaehn and Carol Dennison were able to join him for his father Max's early morning Walk of Honor and for the company they provided at the hospital for the days and nights of his father's illness. Hunter is especially grateful for the laughs and all the stories that he heard about his father Max during that time.

Hunter would also like to thank Dori Vanek (Todd), Avery Kish, CJ Columbo, Dennis Watkins, Mark Sustin, Helene Hamulak, Loretta O'Callaghan, Mayra Valentino, Alyssa Kaufman and Jackie for coming to the hospital to offer their support. A special thanks goes to Debbie and Casey Connelly for the gift basket of snacks, drinks, Kindle and phone chargers that was delivered as we first arrived at the hospital. As well, a big thanks to Sarah Beutel for bringing Hunter and Lukas lunch and dinner while at hospital.

Max leaves behind many close friends he made over the years as well as cousins Brian Stephens, Azure Stephens, Aidan Stephens, and great Aunt Connie Stephens. Hunter will cherish the memories of his father Max's yearly Notre Dame events with his close childhood friends Bob, Joe and Scott and he and his dad especially enjoyed going over to Scott's house for the great cookouts.

Max was the General Manager at Fitworks Rocky River for over twenty years. He enjoyed reading, word games, playing cards and all the talks he had with Hunter. In his prime, Max was an avid athlete. He played football, baseball, and wrestled and was someone to be reckoned with on the weight room floor. Max loved playing trivia with his best friend Michael and especially enjoyed the company of his good friend Ed Klaehn. He was an intelligent, caring man and a good friend. While stoic and on the quiet side, Max was a mentor to Jamie Kaufman, one of his closest friends. Jamie appreciated Max's sound advice as well as his warm friendship and Jamie will miss their many conversations.

He was loved by many and will be missed! His ashes will be scattered near the graves of his beloved mother and father in Wintersville. May he rest in peace and joy for eternity.

Max's family and friends would like to express their gratitude at the excellent care that Max received from the whole ICU team at Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital including ChildLife and LifeBanc. They are especially grateful to Carol "google" Dennison.

We will have visitation services on Friday, June 9 between 5-7pm at CHAMBERS FUNERAL HOME of CLEVELAND,  4420 ROCKY RIVER DRIVE AT PURITAS. All are welcome.

Hunter, Lukas and Tonya would like to thank the many people who have kindly brought food to the house.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider contributing towards Hunter's education. Hunter is beginning his high school education at St. Edward and plans to attend college following graduation. A GoFundMe has been established by his brother Lukas under "Help Hunter After His Father's Passing". Hunter also has an education account set up at KeyBank. You may visit any Key branch and give the following information: Hunter Stillwagon 350163045098. Hunter appreciates any assistance offered as he begins this new phase of his life, now with only memories of his father's love and guidance.