MAX EVERETT BAINES, passed away November 23, 2008, at the age of eighty-four.

Max was born in Lethbridge July 19, 1924, and remained a resident all his life. On September 4, 1941, he became the first Air Cadet in the City of Lethbridge, and signed up for service in the RCAF upon graduation from the LCI in 1942. He graduated from the University of Alberta School of Pharmacy in 1952, and worked at McCready Pharmacy. In 1962 he purchased the business along with Tom McCready Jr., forming McCready-Baines Pharmacy. In 1968 he became sole owner of the Lethbridge store, as well as one in Waterton Park. Max sold the stores in 1983, and worked as the manager of Anderson Pharmacy until 1987, when he retired from full time work due to health reasons. He then worked part-time for Rudy Gettman at the Coaldale Pharmacy until he retired fully in 1990.

Max sang lead in a barbershop quartet for many years; was a highly skilled and creative cabinet maker; a former member of the Lethbridge Movie Club (once making a film that required a home-made volcano to erupt in the basement); an avid reader, an excellent bridge and crib player, a creature of habit who was open to adventure, and a stickler for a perfect lawn. To the end he delighted in the daily crossword puzzle (done in ink, no corrections).

Max is survived and deeply missed by his loving children: son Max (Lorna) Baines, of Lethbridge, and daughter Grace (Tom) Cockburn of Victoria: and by his four grandsons, who could do no wrong in his eyes: Kyle and Bradley Baines of Lethbridge, and Brian and Nathan (Gia) Cockburn of Victoria. He is also survived by his first great-grandchild, Cayden, born November 12; by his much-loved sister, Verna Townsend of Victoria, and by several nieces and nephews, whose visits meant so much to him. He will be remembered by his former customers and staff, and by many friends, for his caring heart and wry sense of humour.

Max was pre-deceased by his loving wife Mary (May), whom he has missed every moment of the past thirteen years; by his parents, Charles and Ethel Baines, and his elder brother Ralph, as well as by a grandson (Don), a nephew (Douglas), and a great-nephew (Christopher).

The family would like to thank Dr. Dave Meller, Dr. Benke, and the staff at Lethbridge Regional Hospital for their care and respect for Dad's wishes; to the staff of Greystoke, whose care enabled Dad to stay in his beloved home; and to friends and neighbours whose visits and kindness over the past years have been a blessing.

A Funeral Services will be held 1:00 pm, Thursday, November 27, 2008 at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 - 4 Street South, Lethbridge.
In lieu of flowers, a donation in his memory to the Canadian Cancer Society, 317 - 10 Street South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 9Z9 or to a charity of one's choice, would be appreciated.