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Maxwell Montgomery

Maxwell Montgomery passed away peacefully at his home in Grand Junction on Sunday, January 24th. He was 36 years old.

Max was born to Valerie Ryken and Timothy Montgomery in Oakland, CA, on August 24, 1979. At an early age, the family, along with older sister, Tia, moved to the Roaring Fork Valley where Max attended many schools, including Yampah Mountain High School and Colorado Mountain College. Max studied history, philosophy and political science under his beloved mentor Dave Harmon, who encouraged Max to do volunteer work in El Salvador and Nicaragua, as well as become an activist for causes he firmly believed in.

Max excelled in school at Colorado Mountain College and Colorado Mesa University and in the workplace as well, quickly rising up the corporate ladder at Whole Foods in the Denver region. Perhaps most recognizable to most of his friends and acquaintances, Max was the front man for the metal band Destructicon, which, with fellow bands, Would, Failed State and Rezin8, enjoyed great popularity in the late ’90s and early ’00s. He was also involved in bands Left for Dead and Bloody Climax.

Max is survived by his mother Valerie Ryken, father Timothy Montgomery, sister Tia (Gary) Glassier, several members of the Willhite family and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, band mates, “foster siblings” and too many friends to count!

While there is no set memorial date, please visit the Facebook page “Max’s Memorial” for further updates and to help celebrate his life.

Condolences may be expressed on the FB page or written condolences may be sent to:

Valerie Ryken,

Box 622

Collbran, CO 81624

The family, in lieu of flowers, would appreciate any cash donations sent to the above address to assist with costs.


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