GOODBYE TO MAX

As I walked in the woods this bright but snowy spring morning, I kept a sharp lookout for Max running along side me, ducking into the underbrush, and splashing in streams. He was there in my memories and in my heart.

Max Philipson, age 11, passed away on the first day of spring, March 20, 2008. Max had been retired from therapy and school visits since the fall when he was diagnosed with a rare cancer. He enjoyed many of those months of retirement, swimming, hunting, and snoozing by the fire.

Max had a long career as a family member, book character, school visitor, and therapy dog (TDI Certified). It was in his work at the schools that Max shined, well, sort of! He visited a total of 435 schools and escaped over 30 times - lost count! Max was always unpredictable, irrepressible, funny, silly, impetuous, and loving. He tried to be good, to come when he was called, etc, but it just was his nature to be a bit contrary. He was a bundle of contradictions—family dog and wild man, affectionate and free-spirited, and dependable and irresponsible. We loved him madly and so did the hundreds of thousands of children Max visited in his career.

Max is survived by his sister, Trini, his brother, Tak and nephew, Oliver as well as the Philipson family, Elliot, Sandy, Becca and Julia. When the sun shines and the lake waters are warm, we will have a swim and a memorial goose chase for Max. We hold him always in our hearts and hope that he is reunited with his Annie.