Norman "Max" Robert Macko

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Norman ‘Max’ Macko, age 75, who peacefully passed away on July 1, 2026. Max was a longtime resident of Kamloops, BC, and in retirement, Chase was his home.

He was predeceased by his mother, Camilla; his father, John Sr.; and his older brothers, Larry and John Jr. (Janet).

Max was born and raised in the East End of the former city of Fort William, Ontario (which later became Thunder Bay in 1970). Alongside his two older brothers, it was there that they enjoyed countless adventures, hunting, racing cars, fishing on Lake Superior, and where his lifelong love of the outdoors, camping, and travel first flourished. During these formative years, Max also formed many enduring friendships that lasted throughout his life.

Following in the footsteps of his oldest and esteemed brother John, Max became an ironworker and began training as a welder. His natural talent, determination, and strong work ethic led to a long and successful career. He worked on many notable projects throughout Northwestern Ontario before moving to Kamloops, BC, at the age of 27 with his young family.

Max had an exceptionally large circle of friends. Naturally charismatic and endlessly witty, he brought laughter wherever he went. His genuine interest in people and infectious smile allowed him to instantly connect with anyone in the room.

Known for his innovation and creativity, Max earned a reputation as the man who could fix anything.

Another great passion in Max's life was restoring classic vehicles. One of his most ambitious projects was the complete restoration of a vintage bus, which he transformed into his unique and custom RV over the last 30 years. His bus became the centerpiece of many years of adventures, carrying him and Linda to one of his favorite places, Teacapán, Mexico. They created endless memories through road trips and winters in Mexico.

Throughout his career, Max worked on construction projects across British Columbia. He concluded his working years as a member of the Operating Engineers Union and formally retired in 2011.

Retirement did not slow Max down. Instead, he kept busy with paid projects and working in his shop. He also continued to develop his creative talents, immersing himself into becoming a self-taught machinist. Drawing upon a lifetime of metalworking experience, he forged various metals with remarkable precision and artistry. Through this meticulous work, he found what we believed was his ‘true calling’.

One of Max's greatest joys in recent years was teaching his son, Larry, the craft of welding, sharing a lifetime of experience and knowledge. He was always excited for camping trips to Shuswap Lake with his son's family. These are moments that will be deeply missed.

Beyond his many accomplishments and creations, Max was a very committed spouse, a loving and proud father, a loyal brother, a proud grandfather, a cat's best friend, and a trustworthy and dependable friend to so many.

Max is survived by his devoted spouse of 24 years, Linda; his son, Larry (Michelle); and his son’s children (Brandon and Jada); Linda’s son Rob (Karen), and their daughter (Ezra).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Foundation in Max's memory.