Max Hendrickson, 83, passed away on Saturday, April 11, leaving behind a life defined by curiosity, craftsmanship, and a spirit that was equal parts stubborn, sly, and deeply endearing.
A longtime resident of Forest Lake, Max spent most of his years right where he loved to be, near the water. Whether cruising the lake on his pontoon or sharing time with his beloved partner, Sandy Case, Max found joy in simple pleasures and good company.
Max had a life of adventure. An avid pilot, a fisherman, and a storyteller; he could build just about anything he set his mind to. His love of ham radio began in his childhood, where he learned the craft from his father, Aldis Hendrickson; continuing as communications officer in the Army Reserves. and becoming and graduating as an electrical engineer.
He was a lifelong builder and learner, of gadgets, of machines, of solutions. He enjoyed his drink, spoke his mind, and could be brash, short, or downright stubborn. Yet everyone who truly knew him found themselves unexpectedly charmed by his quiet humor, his cheeky grin, and the unmistakable warmth beneath the rough edges. Max was, in the best way, one of a kind.
He is survived by his partner Sandy Case, his nephew Donny Berry, and his grand‑nephew Ethan Berry, who will carry forward his stories, his quirks, and his legacy.
Max’s life will be celebrated with a gathering from 4-7 PM Tuesday, April 28th with a special cheers/salute at 6 PM to honor Max in the way he would have appreciated — with good memories, good company, and a raised glass.
Services
Gathering of Family & Friends: Tuesday, April 28, 2026 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Roberts Family Funeral Home
555 Centennial Drive SW
Forest Lake, MN 55025
(651) 464-4422
www.robertsfamilyfh.com
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2026-04-28 16:00:00
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MaxHendricksonGathering of Family & Friends
Gathering of Family & Friends
555 Centennial Drive SW ,Forest Lake, MN 55025
One Last Toast: Tuesday, April 28, 2026 6:00 pm
Roberts Family Funeral Home
555 Centennial Drive SW
Forest Lake, MN 55025
(651) 464-4422
www.robertsfamilyfh.com
Add to My Calendar
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2026-04-28 18:00:00
2026-04-28 18:00:00
MaxHendricksonOne Last Toast
One Last Toast
555 Centennial Drive SW ,Forest Lake, MN 55025

On behalf of the Forest Lake American Legion Post 225, we give thanks for Max’s military service to our country in the Army.
Very sad to hear the passing of Max. He is a friend at breakfast on Saturdays, talking ham radio, talking about history. Thanks for being a good friend, you will be missed. 73 Mike P.
I’ve known Max for 20 years as I was his dental hygienist. A fun little story….almost every time I would see him he would bring me an old bait he had and told me to “catch a big one!” I saw him in February and he brought me the biggest bait and told me to do the same as always. We went to Lake Winnipeg and I was destined to “catch a big one” for Max with this bait! First fish I caught was a 25 1/2 inch walleye with this huge bait he gave me. I was so excited to show him a picture the next time I saw him. He will be so very missed. My deepest condolences to everyone who loved him 🙏🏼