Stephen “Max” Libby

Stephen "Max" Libby, recently of Manhattan, KS, died Saturday, February 17, at Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, KS, after a lengthy illness. He was 62 years old.

Max was born on December 21, 1955, on an unusually hot 84 degree day in Okeene, OK. His mother would later recount that she should have seen that as a sign of things to come. While he grew up in Fairview, OK, it quickly became apparent that Max had both a brilliant mind and no patience with academics. Max preferred to test the limits rather than recite the status quo. These traits made him a challenging child, but later a hugely successful adult. He attended Oklahoma State University, graduating with a degree in in Journalism in 1978.

Journalism was merely a launching pad for Max. Over the years, he combined an innate ability to identify and evaluate trends and patterns with a talent for painstaking research and boundless personal charm. Ultimately he used these gifts to build his own thriving land management business. He enjoyed his company's growing success until his retirement in 2016.

In addition to his professional success, Max was a devoted and doting father. His daughter, child of his marriage to Lisa Cummins, remembers him as a patient and fun-loving father, always finding new ways-and going to great lengths-to encourage as well as delight his little girl.

In addition to professional success, Max also had a rich and active social life. Generous and compassionate, Max was always ready to offer a friend comfort, advice, and material support. And he liked to party. Everywhere he lived-from Oklahoma City to Las Vegas-Max was known to his friends as a gracious host and the Lord High Mayor of Good Times. It was likely no coincidence that Max drew his last breath at closing time on a Friday night.

Max is survived by his daughter, Mrs. Isaac Cornelson (Taylor) and her husband of Oklahoma City, OK; his longtime friend and companion, Debra Ritthaler Myer (Deb) of Manhattan, KS; his brother Thomas Reed Libby (Tom) of Wichita, KS, and his 3 daughters; his sister and brother-in-law Col. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Bracco (Tere') of Pinehurst, NC, and their 4 children; and his sister and brother-in-law Mr. and Mrs. Ron Roquemore (Valerie) and their daughter Maria.

Max is preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Reed Libby (Jack and Joyce) of Fairview, OK, and Max's sister, Maria Michelle Libby.

Max will be remembered as a brilliant businessman, loyal and supportive friend, and loving father. Memorial services are pending. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to the OSU Foundation (https://secure.osugiving.com/give) in Memory of Max Libby.