Max Lee Liby, 80, of Hutchinson, passed away on February 8th, 2023 at Hutchinson Hospital. Max was born in Concordia, KS on June 18, 1942 to Harold Edwin Liby and Reva Charlotte Felt Liby and grew up in Glasco, KS. He was preceded in death by his only sibling, Charlotte Lou Orebaugh of Hobart, OK, and his wife, Yvonne Marie Liby.
Max graduated from Fort Hays State University in 1964 and taught 7th and 8th grade science at Augusta before moving to Mankato in 1966 where he taught Biology, Earth Sciences and Psychology. While in Graduate School he taught the Botany and Embryology Labs. Max switched careers in 1972 when he took a position as a Chemist at Carey Salt Company in Hutchinson, KS. He eventually moved into the main office where he landed the position of Salt Mine Manager in 1980, which he held for 30 years, during which time he was instrumental in the creation of the Salt Mine Museum where visitors can now see his hard hat on display. He retired from the Mine Manager position in 2009 and moved to the Manager position of Hutch Transportation, the company responsible for transporting road salt via rail car. Max never fully retired, working up to the very day of his death, totaling 51 years in the salt industry.
Max was an avid aviator. He belonged to the EAA Ellsworth, KS Chapter, holding the position of Vice President. Max’s pride and joy was his J-3 Piper Cub which he totally rebuilt on his own. He is survived by many wonderful aviation friends who will miss his energetic contribution to General Aviation.
Max is survived by two sons, Harold and wife Barb, and Darren and wife Sachiko, including grandchildren Julian, Chase and Koji. He is also survived by Yvonne’s son Tom Ellis and wife Belinda, including grandchildren Luke and Lauren, and daughter Tammy Thompson and husband David, including granddaughter Aisyn.
Funeral Service was held on February 10, 2023 at Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson, KS. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be donated to Tunnels for Towers, and can be sent in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave, Hutchinson, KS 67502.