Max Michael Evavold

Max Michael Evavold passed away surrounded by family at his home in Sumner, Washington on April 29, 2026, at the age of 85. He was born on October 3, 1940, in Spokane, WA to Donald Harrington Evavold and Carol Rita Walter. The family soon returned to Odessa, WA, where Max grew up on Lakeview Ranch near Pacific Lake with his five younger siblings.

Growing up on the ranch, Max developed a strong work ethic and a lifelong love of waterskiing. Over the year, he held many jobs maintaining fields, driving buses for Wenatchee Valley Junior College and later for Auburn School District, and building up his own companies. He did whatever was needed to support his family, often working multiple jobs at once.

Waterskiing remained a constant in Max’s life, connecting him with friends, family and his community through local fundraisers and water-based stunts. After moving to Lake Tapps, WA with his children, he skied every morning, enjoying what he called “35 years of summer.” He taught countless people to ski, sharing his passion with anyone willing to try.

Max was a devoted member of St. Andrews Catholic Church in Sumner. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend who showed love through acts of service and relentless support. He made sure those around him were always well-fed and laughing. Known for his humor and creativity, Max had a knack for building clever gadgets in his shop. He loved making things with his grandchildren and built each of them a one-of-a-kind piece – ranging from carved toy chests and hat racks to custom rocking trains and horses. If something was broken, Max could fix it.

Max is preceded in death by his parents, Don and Carol Evavold, and his brothers, Jim and Tom. He is survived by his loving wife, Arlene Evavold; siblings, Jon, Anne and Steve; children, Mark, Tami and Angie; grandchildren, Rory, Kelsy, Ashlea, Travis, Lindsay, Mikayla and Jake; and his great-grandchildren, Addison, Zayden, Anderson, Karter, Ackley, Aubree, Miley and Elise.

Max will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Funeral services will be held at St. Andrew Catholic Church, 1401 Valley Ave. E, Sumner, Wash., on May 14th, 2026 at 11am by Fr. Tom Belleque and Father Jerry Burns. Reception to follow. Graveside service will be held on May 21st at 11am at Gethsemane Cemetery.