Max ("Papa Max") Eixenberger was a king among kings; a special type of man among a very special family. Max possessed a rare appetite for life and love. Max's passion was so legendary that parents of his youth basketball, baseball, and softball teams learned to bring suckers to games for Max (to occupy his mouth) just in case some of his passion grew too coarse.

Even though he was rough around the edges, Max's heart was pure gold. Children and animals recognized him as a kindred spirit. Max could rarely be seen without a child smiling up at him. Indeed, Papa Max was a man born to love and be loved by all who were fortunate enough to know him. He was truly a fortunate son.

Max met the love of his life, Donna Eixenberger (formerly Chapman), in November of 1985, and they married on March 25, 1989. The happy couple enjoyed a large, loving family with their children: Cody Skinner, Sam Oviatt, and Erik Eixenberger. A dedicated father, each of Max's children was blessed with Max's sense of humor and zest for life. Max worked hard days as a welder, and later as a commercial driver for Winair in Rapid City, SD, but he always knew that his first job was to be there for his family and friends. He was a gift to us all.

Max's life was forever changed on October 27, 2010, when he lost his son Erik. After Erik's passing, Max's broken heart was mended by God's loving embrace. He became a certified member in "good standing" with the Believers Fellowship Church in Sturgis, where his friend, Pastor John Williamson, shepherded he and Donna through their grief. Through it all, Max kept the faith.

Max took his final journey on July 8, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Donna Eixenberger; his son, Cody (Staci) Skinner; his granddaughter, Rylei Skinner; his daughter, Samantha (Nate) Oviatt; his brother, Jim Eixenberger; his sister, Annette Eixenberger; his brother, Ed Eixenberger; his sister, Mary Ellen (Herman) Murray; his brother, John (Roze) Eixenberger; and countless nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Erik Eixenberger; father, Maurice "Ike" Eixenberger; mother, Judy Eixenberger; and brothers, Ron Eixenberger, Jerry Eixenberger, and Frankie Eixenberger.

Visitation will be from noon to 8:00 p.m., with the family present from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 14, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.

Funeral services will be held Monday, July 15, 2013, at 2:00 p.m. at Believers Fellowship Church with Pastor John Williamson officiating.

A memorial has been established for Sturgis Youth Athletic Programs.

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