Maxwell James Lautzenheiser

Maxwell ""Max"" James Lautzenheiser, born August 21, 2002, returned to his Heavenly home on December 12, 2008, in his mother's arms surrounded by family and friends. Max was born to James and Marci (Wright) Lautzenheiser in Fort Collins, CO. From the beginning, the doctor's never thought Max would live to breathe on earth. Born early, Max spent a lot of time in the hospital enduring 47 surgeries during his short life. Max was very unique. He left the hospital with a trach and a feeding tube. It was later discovered that Max was deaf. Although he never spoke a word, his valiant spirit spoke volumes to the hearts of all those who came in contact with him. On May 2, 2008, he was diagnosed with Toriello-Carey Syndrome. At that point, his family decided they would rather see him die living than just live dying.Never a day went by when his family didn't thank Heavenly Father for the gift of Max's life. They feel they reached for the stars and got an armful of heaven when Max came into their lives. Their Christmas Angel has now returned home. Everyone will miss Max's smile. One of Max's greatest joys was attending Zach Elementary where he loved playing with his classmates. During his last few months, he experienced more excitement than anyone imagined he could.My MasterpieceWe've done a mighty piece of work, A ""masterpiece"" for thee, And now he's ""on exhibit"" For all the world to seeâ?¦He's not a ""finished piece of art"",His body came with flaws,Bringing joy to each he metWas his greatest cause.I'd welcome viewer comment,On how he touched your life and mine,A very special angel, each attributeOf this ""master work"" so fineFor now he's flawlessAll adjustment's will be doneHe's gone back to ""Fatherâ?¦""His Masterpiece,â?¦My Son!Max is survived by his parents, Jim and Marci Lautzenheiser of Fort Collins; brother, Mitch; sisters, Hanna and Greta; grandparents, Ron and Katie Lautzenheiser and Ron and Marcia Wright; great-grandparents, Howard and Eleanor Lautzenheiser and Anna M. Horvatich; uncles and aunts, Karen and Mike Ballou, Ron and Jasmine Lautzenheiser, Tammy and Dave Thayer, Brad and Wendy Wright, Wendy and Dave Morris, Greg and Lara Wright, Misty and Andy Newman, Richard and Jean Ann Lautzenheiser; many cousins, Emma, Sophie and Charlie Ballou, Christian and Catherine Lautzenheiser, Lindsey (& Justin) Kirkham, Tony, Tanner, and Hayley Thayer, Conner, Amanda, Samantha and Isabel Wright, Zach and Abby Morris, Whitney, Carly, and Wesley Wright, Sid, Chad and Sage Newman, and Shelby and Victoria Lautzenheiser. Visitation will be held 4:00 p.m. â?? 8:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday at Resthaven Funeral Home and 10:30 a.m. â?? 12:00 p.m. Saturday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints at Trilby and Timberline. All whose lives Max has affected are invited to attend the Funeral Service in his honor at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2008 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. Interment Resthaven Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations for final arrangements may be made to the Max Lautzenheiser Memorial Fund in care of Resthaven Funeral Home, 8426 S. Hwy 287, Fort Collins, CO 80525. A special thanks to the many caregivers, friends, and community member who have enriched his life. Please send your condolences and share thoughts of how Max had touched your life.