Max Damacio Griego

Max Esequiel Damacio Griego was born November 11, 1937 inSeven Mile Plaza (Los Valdezes), Colorado to Ralph Griego and Emilia (Emma) Espinosa. He was raised in Monte Vista, Co where he attended school, helped his father work as a ranch hand, herd sheep, and harvest peas and potatoes in the heart of the San Luis Valley.

At the age of 18, Max enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he became a proud paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. Stationed with the 618th "Nasty" Combat Engineers at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, he completed numerous jumps—living the daring life of an elite soldier.

After his military service, Max pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from Metropolitan State University of Denver. He began his career as a Mental Health Technician in Cortez, Colorado, before moving to Southern California, where he worked as a clinical interpreter at the University of San Diego. There, he supported Spanish- speaking trauma patients from Baja California, all while nurturing his passion for art and writing. In 1985, Max relocated to Moreno Valley to be closer to his beloved sister, Marcella. He began a long and dedicated career as Head Custodian at Hidden Springs Elementary, where he was cherished by students and staff alike for his kindness, warmth, and friendly spirit.

Max was formerly married to JoAnn Meeker, with whom he shared three children. Though their marriage ended, Max remained a devoted and proud father, deeply involved in his children’s lives and accomplishments. He was very proud of his children and grandkids accomplishments and the lives they chose to lead

He is survived by Son: Lucas Griego, wife Lica, and children Gavin and Declan, residing in Cebu City, Philippines. Daughter: Shannon Garcia Whitecloud, husband Adrian, children Marissa (Anthony), James (Rina), Jasmine; and great-grandchildren AJ, Amelia, Nolan, residing in Los Alamitos, California Son: Diego Griego, wife Adora , and children Damacio, Daniel, Sol, and Max, and great grandson Sage, residing in Fort Collins, Colorado Sister Marcella Garcia, sister Della Griego, brother Dale Griego (Gilda), and brother Laurence Griego (Laura). Max also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved and admired him.

Max was an artist, poet, and author—a deeply creative soul whose work transported others into realms of fantasy and wonder. He crafted incredible fantasy toys and visual art inspired by the likes of Frank Frazetta. As a poet, his published works illuminated new ways of seeing the world and as an author, he brought stories to life in books like “Pie Rats” and “The Witch in the Wind.”

Gentle, peaceful, and humble, Max had a rare gift for compassion and seldom passed judgment on others. He found joy in everyday life, loved connecting with friends and family through his computer, and was a vibrant presence on social media. We will miss him dearly.