Max Dee Skabelund

Max Dee Skabelund passed away peacefully on September 12, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 88 years old.

Max was born on July 8, 1938, in Logan, Utah, to Mark and Gladys Skabelund. Max married Karen Donohoo in the Logan Utah Temple on February 10, 1961. They shared 65 years of marriage and treasured the life they built together and the time they shared with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

With his kind heart, warm smile, and genuine love for others, Max dedicated himself to a life of service. Whether he was telling his wild campfire stories as “Mad Max” at Mountain Man Rendezvous, serving more than 40 years in the Scouting program, or portraying a beloved and warm-hearted Santa Claus, Max brought joy to those around him.

In his later years, Max became a well-known flute maker, creating beautiful handmade Native American-style flutes enjoyed by many.

Max is survived by his wife, Karen, of Mesa; his children, Lori (Tom) Bottomley of Mesa, Doug (Staci) Skabelund of Laveen, Shari (Kirt) Boylan of Herriman, Utah, Steve (Pam) Skabelund of Mesa, and Randy (Kim) Skabelund of Mesa; his daughter-in-law, Victoria Henley of Mesa; his beloved cousin, Lena Christiansen of Mesa; his sisters, Judith Harrison of Payson and Jeanne Drollinger of Mesa; 24 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Danny; his parents, Mark and Gladys Skabelund; and his brothers, Reid and Lyle Edward.

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.