Max Lee Shackelford, 80, of rural Douds, IA passed away peacefully on August 29, 2023, at his home. As were Max’s wishes his body has been cremated. A graveside service will be held in the Iowaville Cemetery near Selma on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. with Pastor Mark Clark officiating. Memorial contributions in Max’s honor may be directed to the Doud’s Fire and EMS or to the Van Buren County Ambulance in honor of the great care they provided for Max whenever they were needed. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Max Lee Shackelford was born on October 17, 1942, in Oskaloosa, IA, the son of the late Louis and Pearl Martin Shackelford. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Marlys, Linda, Joan, and his half-sister, Lois Ann. Despite the loss of his immediate family, Max found love and companionship in his surviving family members. He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Shackelford of Douds, IA, and his half-sister, Dotty (Don) Davis of Missouri. Max also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, whom he cherished as if they were his own children. Max’s early life was shaped by the rural landscapes of Thornburg, IA, where he attended school and began working as a farmhand at a young age. His eventually moved in with his aunt, where he continued to work on the farm, developing a lifelong love for agriculture.
In 1967, Max married the love of his life, Linda Lewis, at the Douds United Methodist Church. The couple set up their home on a family farm near Selma, IA, affectionately known as “Rocky Top”. Alongside farming, Max also worked at Barker Wire in Keosauqua and dedicated 30 years of his life to Rockwell in Fairfield.
Max was a man of simple pleasures. He found joy in fishing and hunting and often attended wild game sales. A fan of classic cinema, Max had a particular fondness for John Wayne, often seen enjoying his films during his downtime. His love for sports was evident in his unwavering support for the Chicago Cubs and the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Above all, Max loved spending time with his wife, Linda, and his extended family.
Max Lee Shackelford will be remembered as a loving husband, a caring uncle, a dedicated worker, and a passionate sports fan. His life was a testament to the power of hard work, the importance of family, and the joy of simple pleasures.
