LELAND — With heavy but grateful hearts we share Max Wunderlich, 88 of Leland, NC peacefully passed away on January 2, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Manhattan, NY on May 1, 1936, Max was the son of the late Max and Kathie Wunderlich. In his youth Max was an accomplished accordion player and even played on the “Ted Mack Amateur Hour”.
Max is survived by his wife Joan Brennan of Leland NC, son Brian Wunderlich (Serena) of Woodstock, NY, daughter Julie Squires (John) of Kingston NY and grandchildren Devin and Helen Wunderlich. Max is also survived by extended family Bruce and Michelle Collins of Holly Springs, NC, Frank and Sherry Hallenbeck of Leland, NC and Patrick and Robin Brennan of Kingston, NY, grandchildren Kelsey, Kevin, Eric, Halie, Christopher and Logan and nieces Lene Parker, Kiley Marshall and Kathy Bracey.
He is pre-deceased by his parents and brother Ronald Wunderlich.
Max graduated from SUNY Canton with an AAS degree in Mechanical Technology and went on to a 34 yr career with IBM Large Systems Division as a Mechanical Development Manager until his retirement.
He lived a rich life full of family & friends, travel, skiing, golfing, drinking his beloved Manhattans and becoming a Carolina Hurricanes fan. In retirement he worked as an usher at the PNC Arena in Raleigh and in 2006 got to see the Canes hoist the Stanley Cup. Max was also a member at Wildwood Green Golf Club and when money was on the line, he was unbeatable.
Max made friends wherever he went, always found someone with NY roots, had a quick wit and was always ready with a playful jab. All with a twinkle in his brilliant blue eyes.
The family would like to express our immense gratitude to Dr. Andy Armstrong at Duke Cancer Center, the incredible staff at Arbor Landing at Compass Pointe and the angels at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Hospice.
Max was a lover of classic country music and he held no one in higher esteem than “my man” George Jones. We’re comforted to know that right now he’s listening to “The Possum” on repeat with a Yukon Jack Manhattan in hand (dry vermouth and with a twist!).
Until we meet again…goodnight.
Memorial donations may be made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Foundation, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Online condolences are encouraged and may be sent to the family here.
