Max Frank Handbury passed away at his home on July 15, 2021 having attained the age of 73. He and Jerri, his loving wife of 52 years, were united in marriage, May 3, 1969, in Mead, Nebraska. They moved from Omaha, Neb. in 1973 and they made their home and farmed near Persia.
Max was born in Council Bluffs to Frank and Mildred (Muxfeldt) Handbury on Jan. 6, 1948. He graduated from Tri Center High School in 1966 and attended Wayne State College. In 1969, he joined the Iowa National Guard and was honorably discharged in February 1975. While serving he was awarded Marksman Badge, 5 years of Service ribbon, and ACDUTRA State Service ribbon. He drove school bus for the T-C school district for over 20 years.
He is survived by his wife Jerri, daughters Jennifer (Dale) Kosmacek of Nevis, Minn.; children Patrick, Gregory, and Rebekah; Amy (Dave) Sliva of Columbus, Neb.; children Justin and Timmy; sons Matt (Linnea) Handbury of Neola; children Chaeli, Maryn, and Tevin; Craig (Jennie) Handbury of Tipton; children Andrew and Collin.
Max was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Mildred, in-laws, Victor and Helen Barta, infant son Gregory Frank, sister-in-law Joyce Polak, nephew Timothy Feekin, many cousins, other family members, and friends.
In addition to spending time with his family and friends, he enjoyed fishing in Minnesota, playing cards and woodworking.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Rev. Joel McNeil on Monday, July 19, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Portsmouth. Patrick Kosmacek, Steve Heim, Gregory Kosmacek, Donald Feekin, Duane Blowers, Wally Polak, Justin Sliva, Tevin Handbury, Tim Sliva, Jerry Jenkins, and Steve Stamp served as honorary casket bearers. Craig Handbury, Matt Handbury, Dave Sliva, Dale Kosmacek, Randy Polak, and Joe Blowers served as casket bearers. Military Honors were provided by Persia American Legion Post No. 314 and Portsmouth American Legion Post No. 547. Inurnment will take place at a later date at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Portsmouth.
Pauley Jones Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
