Max J. Blair

Max Blair (1975–2024): A Life Celebrated

Max Blair, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, unexpectedly passed away on July 24, 2024, at his home in Stillwater, MN. He was 49 years old.

Born on March 31, 1975, in St. Cloud, MN, to Jeffrey and Sherry Blair, Max grew up in Waite Park, MN, alongside his sister, Jenni. His childhood was filled with many different adventures with his friends, from playing pond hockey to biking his paper route or crushing bombs like Babe Ruth in Little League. Weekends were spent exploring the outdoors, whether cross-country skiing with his family or fishing with his dad.

Max attended Apollo High School, where he played baseball and football. Later, he pursued higher education at St. John’s University, earning a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and computer science. His passion for learning extended to a memorable Greco-Roman study abroad trip, which he enthusiastically shared with his kids too many times (insert eye rolls). 

Professionally, Max thrived in web development and data analytics. His nearly two-decade tenure at 3M in Maplewood, MN, showcased his versatility across IT, Marketing/Communications, and Data Insights and Analytics. Most recently, he contributed his expertise at Digikey in Bloomington, MN. 

Yet Max’s greatest joy was his family. He married the love of his life, Jaclyn Langhorst, and together, they settled in Stillwater, MN, and raised their children, Elizabeth and Thomas. Max wore the badge of honor as Elly’s and Tom’s dad with pride. He was just as much a hero to them as they were to him, remarking often to Jackie that Elly’s and Tom’s character and achievements were so much more than he could ever imagine for them. He was not only their biggest cheerleader but also their unwavering support—a steady presence they could always rely on.

Max took pride in preparing the yard for gatherings with family, friends, and neighbors. His love language was sharing his gift of cooking—especially the mouthwatering dishes from his smoker. He enjoyed spending time on the St Croix River boating, cabin life in Crosslake, MN, and hunting in the Northwoods of MN. Max’s infectious laughter and storytelling endeared him to all. He never took life too seriously, encouraging Jackie and the kids to follow suit. And he loved the simplest joys in life, like watching football in the porch with a fire and his family, or kicking back with a cool one with friends. Most recently, Max and Jackie were starting to dream about the fun memories to be made as they entered the "empty-nesting" stage of life. 

Max’s legacy lives on through the deep connections he fostered. He was an exceptional dad, husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend. Once you befriended Max, it was a lifelong bond. His passing leaves a void, but the memories of laughter, love, and shared moments will endure.

Max is survived by his wife, Jaclyn; children, Elizabeth and Thomas; sister, Jenni (Ryan) Pruse of Janesville, WI; parents-in-law, Steven and Mary Langhorst of Lafayette, MN; brother-in-law Lincoln (Jaclyn) Langhorst of North Mankato, MN; niece and five nephews; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He joins his parents, Jeffrey and Sherry Blair, in eternal rest.