Max Rana, 56, passed away of natural causes on his last hike on his favorite trail near Idyllwild on Aug. 23, 2012. Max loved the mountains. He always said he felt closer to God in nature. His other passions included riding his mountain bike, camping, fishing and hiking with family and friends. He enjoyed his motorized toys and was self-taught in fixing and modifying his quad-racer. His earlier passion was piloting his own aircraft after he learned to fly. He always marveled over the view of the earth below as he soared above the clouds like an eagle. He truly lived life to its fullest and considered every day a gift. He was a devoted CFO and priesthood servant in his congregation, Community of Christ. He studied the scriptures daily, as he strived to help others and to be a better servant.

Max was born to Helen Brannon and Maxwell Rana in Trona, Calif. He was brother to Gail, Kent and Joy. He is preceded in death by both parents and two siblings. He enjoyed a small town upbringing. He loved playing football in high school. He worked on the Naval Air Weapons Base near China Lake and Chemical plants in and near Trona. Later, he went to college and settled into a long career as a loan officer for credit units.

Max met and married his true love and soul mate, Tina (Young). They shared the love of being in the mountains and married in Big Bear in 2007. Max was dad to her son Zachary and three other children from a previous union., Cassandra, Clarissa and Cameron. Max was grandpa to Ian, Drew and Mackenzie, and one great-grandson, Bradley. He is also survived by his step-parents Fred and Lois Barrett and family, his in-laws Larry and Sally Young and family of Colorado, many Ranas and the Brannon families in Oklahoma, as well as many friends who he considered his family too.

Max will be remembered as a kind, gentle and humble man with integrity and willingness to help others with a positive attitude. We will miss his sense of humor his jokes, his frogs and his unconditional love. Our heavenly father called you home in the mountains, but we will have you in our hearts forever.

Max’s life celebration was held on Sept. 16, 2012 at the Community of Christ Church in San Jacinto. Hemet Valley Mortuary assisted with the family’s final wishes and arrangements.