Max Decker

Max Decker (1950–2025)

Max Decker, 75, of Noblesville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Barrier, Kentucky, Max built a life defined by hard work, perseverance and integrity. He started by delivering newspapers as a kid, continued at Burger Chef as a teenager and later built a successful boating accessory distributor business.

Max believed in doing things the right way. He was a man of his word, known for his follow-through, his love of precision and his refusal to ever half-do a job.

He is survived by Nancy (née Grannan), his wife of 56 years, whose steady and loyal partnership was the foundation of their life together. He leaves behind four children: Christine (Craig) Miller, Janet (Greg) Baumgardner, David (Stephanie) and Susan (Greg) Strehle and eleven grandchildren who carry his charm, competitive spirit and sense of humor: Emily, Hayden, Avery, Chandler, Madde, Derek, Jared, Macy, Gabe, Amelia and Sawyer. He is also survived by four great-grandchildren: Zyla, Lazarus, Vivi and Rhys.

Max was sharp, observant and never one for small talk — but once you had his attention, he'd talk for hours. He loved good music, good food, a well-done task and time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Gladys and Dillon, and is survived by his brother, Steve, and his family.

A private family gathering will be held to celebrate Max’s life with a toast to a man who always did things his way. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Max by supporting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or helping build a Little Library at the International District Community Center, a small gesture with a big impact, just like Max.

And if you really want to do it right: raise a glass, savor a cheeseburger, soak up a little sun or tackle a crossword puzzle in his honor.