My family and the Ritchies were so close as I was growing up that I called Max’s parents Uncle Don and Auntie Leonie and I thought of Max, Paul and Chris as my non blood cousins. I have so many memories of times spend at each others houses in Dunedin and many holidays in Queenstown - at the bottle house, the camping ground, ‘Corries whare’ in Kelvin Heights and then at the houses both families bought not far from each other in Queenstown. The Ritchie sense of humour was always to the fore and I remember Max’s sense of humour and fun. My deepest condolences to Bronwyn and your family, Max you will be always missed but remembered with a smile.

I met Max 20+ years ago when we worked on a project at the Open Polytechnic in Lower Hutt and we have remained friends ever since. Many a conversation was had about family, music, cars and the state of the world, as we took our daily lunchtime walk around the local streets wearing our step counters. It was always a source of annoyance for Max, that even though we were the same height, I managed to do hundreds of more steps than him. His short body/long legs vs. my longer body short legs. I’ll miss catching up with Max when we visit Wellington. RIP.

We will always remember Max for his kind heart, his sense of fairness and oh so loved that sense of humor !.We will especially cherish the memories of our "birthday club" celebrations and the many fun and caring times we would share together with "10 special friends". Goodbye dear friend, thank you for your unconditional friendship and love. A true gentleman. Gary & Gill

I meet Max about 10 years ago at the Kapiti Golf Club Max was liked by all, was great to play with and his only complaint was his own golf. We both ran the Tuesday men’s golf for 2 years and it was only when Max could no longer play golf that I realised how much he did to make Tuesday golf a success. Like a lot of others, we did catch up at the TFC Max thanks for everything have enjoyed your company “ may the wind be always on your back and the sunshine warm upon your face, rest in peace” Richard Toner

I always enjoyed his banter on the golf course and genuine friendship. Definitely a good sort.

My (Ashton) family have known Max for about 45 years. Firstly as our family’s neighbour in Westhaven Drive, Tawa. This is were Max and Bronwyn became such great friends of my parents, John and Barbara. Over the years we shared so many family birthday gatherings and celebrations. Max always liked to remind Dad and I that he’s 12 years younger than dad and 12 years older than me 😁 … Albeit Max became a grandad in the same year as Dad😁 For several years Max and I worked in his Project Management at Datacom, until retirement. This role came with many highs, lows and frustrations all adding to some memorable, and not so memorable experiences. But certainly plenty of laughs in between One comment I remember Max saying to me is that he’s not going to retire and play golf every day like my father, but am sure Bronwyn can vouch that may have changed somewhat when they moved to Kapiti 😁⛳️ Max had such a great sense of humour that we really enjoyed. We had so many fun parties at Sam’s Way with plenty of laughs, stories, jokes and often with too many drinks 🍷 I know Max will be so dearly missed by beautiful Bronwyn, family and his friends. He will certainly be missed by my mum, Janet and I. Let’s hope he’s already playing golf up there with Dad. Sending my deepest condolences to Bronwyn, Aidan, Jessica and family. XO

We met 11 years ago at Kapiti golf club and we started a friendship that has never been broken. I will miss our unofficial book club meetings (whisky tasting) and de-briefs at TFC. You always had an opinion to share, right or wrong. Your music tastes were a bit out there, but was always liked to talk cars and family. Our group of friends will put their arms around Bronwyn. Sending all our love from France.

Our good friend max. We cannot bring the old days back when we were all together on and off the golf course the chain is broken now but memories live forever your friends.Dennis , Ross John

Very sad at departure Well loved in the neighbourhood Will miss you Julie RIP

Our good mate Max. Thanks for all the fun and the Memories. Lots of great times, Meals , and Laughter. Life won’t be the same without you!! You brighten up our lives🏌️😂