Max Smith

Thurman “Max” Smith, age 87, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, surrounded by his family.
He was employed by Cincinnati Milacron for over 40 years.

Max was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.

He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Sandy Smith; his children, Larry (Jean) Smith, Michael Smith, Angela (Paul) Kisser, Pamela (Greg) Kulpinski, Scott Kennedy, Laura (Michael) Bryant, and Kayla (Michael) Royer; his brother, Vernon (Glenda) Smith; and many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arllie and Ethel Smith; his parents-in-law, Lester and Maureen Durham; his sons, John Kennedy and Aaron Wachter; his grandsons, Nathan Gast and Trey Kennedy; his son-in-law, David Gast; his daughter-in-law, Mary Smith; and his siblings, Clarence Smith, Kenny Smith, and Ida Mae Smith.

Max was a man who cherished the simple things in life and the people he loved most. His family and friends were the center of his world, and he never missed an opportunity to spend time with those he cared about.

He found great joy on the water, spending countless hours boating and fishing, and teaching everyone to ski, or throwing you off a tube any chance he got.

In his later years, he developed an appreciation for nature and took delight in feeding and watching the wildlife around him. Whether it was deer gathering in the yard, birds visiting the feeders, or squirrels eagerly awaiting a snack, he found peace and happiness in caring for God's creatures.

His kindness, gentle spirit, and love for family, friends, and nature will be remembered by all who knew him.

Although we will miss him every day, we take comfort in knowing that he is no longer in pain, has found peace, and is reunited with those who went before him and will live on in the hearts of those who loved him

“A lover of tractors and other machines
A farmer at heart or so it seems”

Visitation will take place on Saturday June 6, 2026 at Hodapp Funeral Home in West Chester, 8815 Cincinnati Columbus Rd, West Chester, OH 45069, from 10:30 until the time of the funeral service beginning at 12:30. Burial will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery