May 9, 1947 – October 26, 2025
Nampa, Idaho
Life & Legacy
Max Ray Herzog, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, at the age of 78. His life was defined by faith, family, service, and music—a harmony that resonated through all he did.
Born on May 9, 1947, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to John Raymond Herzog and Willora Roberteen Kerr, Max was their second child and only son. He grew up in Magna, Utah, alongside his three sisters—Carol Clift, Shellie Larios, and Becky Ford—and graduated from Cyprus High School in 1965.
Faith & Education
Max faithfully served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the British Mission from 1966 to 1968. His testimony and devotion to the gospel remained steadfast throughout his life.
He attended Snow College and Southern Utah State College, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education with a minor in Music in 1972. Music and sports became lifelong passions that shaped his career and his relationships.
Marriage & Family
In the fall of 1969, Max met Merrillyn Day at Snow College. They were sealed for time and all eternity on June 6, 1970, in the Manti Utah Temple. Together they raised five children—Maxine, John, Lynette, Lynn, and Mandee—and built a life filled with laughter, learning, and love.
Max often said his greatest blessing was his wife, Merrillyn, who stood beside him for more than five decades. He was a devoted husband and a fun, loving father who delighted in being part of his children’s and grandchildren’s lives. His easygoing warmth and humor made everyone feel welcome and loved.
Music, Work & Hobbies
A talented musician, Max played the trombone and trumpet in college and community bands. After graduation, he taught band, chorus, and general music in Milford, Utah, before branching into various careers—teacher, coal miner, pool cleaner, banker, and owner of his own driver’s education school.
Max was passionate about sports of every kind. He ran track, swam, and played basketball, volleyball, softball, badminton, and table tennis. He loved riding bikes with his kids and grandkids—but his favorite pastime was golf, where he built a collection of more than 1,000 unique golf balls.
At home, Max enjoyed board games, puzzles, and singing. He played Monopoly and chess with his children and grandchildren and loved completing jigsaw puzzles surrounded by family. His voice often filled the home—whether singing barbershop harmonies, church hymns, or spontaneous tunes that brought joy to those around him.
Faith & Service
Max served faithfully in many callings within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including nursery, scouting, and numerous priesthood responsibilities. His service in scouting spanned decades, and he guided countless young men toward achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.
He also had a deep passion for genealogy and family history, indexing over 700,000 names for the Church. Recognized among the top 100 indexers worldwide out of 400,000 contributors, he found joy in connecting families across generations. At the time of his passing, Max was serving as a service missionary at the Nampa Family History Center.
His life was grounded in his unwavering testimony of Jesus Christ. He honored his priesthood, loved the scriptures, and lived with gratitude and faith in God’s eternal plan.
Family
Max is survived by his loving wife, Merrillyn; his children, Maxine (Robert), John, Lynette (Joshua), Lynn, and Mandee (Travis); as well as a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who adored him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Shellie Larios; and his grandson, Shane Michael Herzog.
Service Information
Funeral Service:
Saturday, November 8, 2025 | 12:00 p.m.
Viewing: 11:00 a.m. prior to the service
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
121 N. Canyon Street, Nampa, Idaho
Interment:
Kohlerlawn Cemetery, Nampa, Idaho
Legacy
Max lived a life rich in love, laughter, and purpose. His kindness, curiosity, and gentle humor will long be remembered by those who knew him. A man of music, service, and faith, he left behind not only melodies and memories—but a legacy of devotion, compassion, and Christlike love that will continue to inspire generations.
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