Maximilion Wilfred Jaquez

Maximilion Wilfred Jaquez, was born October 12, 1932, on a homestead located on a high mesa near the Colorado/New Mexico border, near where the Navajo Dam was later built. He passed away peacefully in Puyallup, Washington on December 10, 2023, at the age of 91.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jose Savino and Maria Elena Jaquez, his loving wife Norma of 62 years, and a baby boy who died at birth.

Max is survived by his six children: Joel, Clarence (Simone), Henry (Stefanie), Theron, Jeinise (David), and Andres (Sarah), along with 16 grandchildren and an expanding generation of great-grandchildren. He was a dedicated husband and father, working tirelessly to provide for his family. His strong work ethic served as a model for the family and his firm belief in education sent all six children on to earn college degrees and enjoy successful careers.

Max was a lifelong Catholic and since moving to Fife in 1966, he was a fixture at Sunday morning mass at St. Martin of Tours Parish. His faith served as a foundation throughout his life.

Max was a proud Navy veteran and a member of the local VFW Post in Milton. During the Korean War, he served aboard the U.S.S. St. Paul, which had the distinction of firing the last rounds of both WWII and the Korean War.

In his early years, Max worked in Blanco, NM at an EL Paso Natural Gas gas station. He then moved to WA state to work at Boeing and later retired as an automotive mechanic. He loved to work with his hands and was always fixing things. He was crafty at utilizing scraps he had saved up in some corner of his garage. During retirement, Max could be found in his garden growing corn, potatoes and tending to his dahlias. He loved telling a good joke and playing UNO or Rummikub with his grandkids. He was never idle and graciously gave of his time to help family, friends, and the community. He truly embodied what it means to live life with a servants heart; dependably showing up for anyone and everyone should a need arise.

His warmth and caring presence will be forever missed by his family, who will continue to hold him in their hearts. Que descanse en paz.

There will be a viewing at Powers Funeral Home, 320 West Pioneer Ave., Puyallup, WA on Wednesday, 12/20 from 10:00 AM-4:00 PM. A reading of the Rosary at 9:30 AM will precede a funeral mass to be held at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Fife at 10:00 AM on Thursday, 12/21. A luncheon and Celebration of Life will immediately follow at the church parish hall. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Max’s honor to the St. Vincent De Paul Conference at St. Martin of Tours.