Max “B” McYoung

Max “B” McYoung passed away in Oak Harbor, WA on Monday, April 29, 2013 at the age of 77. Max was born to Delbert and Alma McYoung on May 10, 1935 in Falling Rock, West Virginia. Max spent his youth in a variety of different locations in West Virginia and graduated from Elkview High School in Elkview, WV.

The next few years saw Max traveling the United States and finally in February 1955 he enlisted in the United States Navy. His Naval career began with the aircraft carrier USS Bonhomme Richard. He also served aboard Naval Base Anacostia in Washington DC; Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, NAS Sand Point in Seattle, and finally NAS Whidbey Island where he retired in 1977. During one of his tours, he met Mary Lietz and they were married August 30, 1963 at the Andrews Air Force Base Chapel in Camp Springs, Maryland.

After retirement, Max sold real estate in Oak Harbor, first working at Panorama Realty and later Hobby Farm Realty. Health issues forced him to retire and in 1998 Max was given an extended life by being the recipient of a heart transplant.

Max was an avid hunter and fisherman. In the late 1980’s he became dismayed as he watched his beloved Skagit River becoming clogged with logging debris and muddy runoff. After tirelessly hounding members of Congress, the federal government finally appointed a manager for the Skagit thus, in Max’s own words, “saving the river for generations to come.” For his efforts, Max was awarded a Seattle Post-Intelligencer Jefferson Award in 1992.

Max is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Mary; sisters-in law Elizabeth McYoung of Charleston, WV Charlene McYoung of St. Albans ,WV, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by brothers Marshall, Major (and wife Carol) and Emerson McYoung and sister Carol Fields.

Per Max’s request, no funeral services will be held. The family asks that you consider donations to WAIF, PO Box 1108, Coupeville, WA 98239. Friends and family are encouraged to offer condolences and share memories utilizing the Book of Memories hosted by Wallin Funeral Home at www.wallinfuneralhome.com

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