Max Eldon Maggard

Max Eldon Maggard, 89, of Colfax died June 7, 2024. He was born Feb. 23, 1935, to Roscoe and Neva (Beals) Maggard.

Max lived in rural Colfax his entire life, and he farmed the land since he could walk. He married Joyce Olson on Dec. 16, 1956, in Altoona, and they welcomed Ron, Keith, Linda, Rhonda and Mitzi.

They made a life in rural Colfax, where he raised cattle and perfected his famous “Max Maggard Beef.” When planting he didn’t have a need for GPS, his rows were always straight. He also didn’t need a calculator; the math was always done in his head.

Max had a gregarious and colorful personality, he always kept his hair and mustache pristine, and he was never too busy to visit with anyone.

Max participated in over 23 Great Iowa Tractor Rides. He served on the Jasper County Pork Board and the Jasper County Cattlemen’s Association, and he served 30 years as the Poweshiek County Trustee and six years on the Mingo Community School Board. He also enjoyed bowling in a league for many years.

He valued his friendships, the community, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of his life.

He is survived by his wife Joyce; his son Ron (Karen) Maggard; his daughters Linda (Joe) Maher, Rhonda Maggard and Mitzi (Darin) Wood; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Keith Maggard, his grandson Blake Wood and other beloved extended family.

A visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at Howard Street Christian Church in Colfax. A celebration of his life will be held at the church at 10:30 a.m. the following day, Wednesday, June 12, 2024. A time of food and fellowship will be held at the church following the service, and all are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the McKeever Cemetery Association or Ira United Church.