Max Marcum
ST. LOUIS, MO – Max Marcum, 91, passed away on Sunday, December 21. Born in Edmonton, Kentucky, on August 7, 1934, he was the son of Max and Annie K. Marcum.
Known for his larger-than-life personality, quick wit, and practical jokes, Max lived each day to the fullest, had a gift of making friends wherever he went, and brought joy to every gathering. After graduating from DuPont Manual High School in Louisville, Kentucky, Max, while serving in the Naval Reserves, began a long and successful career in manufacturing.
He started as an apprentice tool and die maker at International Harvester and rose through the ranks to become general manager at Reynolds Metals. He was later recruited to be plant manager at Bauer Aluminum, a role that took his family to Dallas, Texas. From there, Kaiser Aluminum approached Max to serve as regional manager in Chicago, Illinois. Following several promotions, he settled in St. Louis, Missouri, where he found an opportunity to keep his family in one place and ultimately became CEO and owner/partner of Aluminum Industries, where he later retired.
A dedicated Boy Scout, he achieved Life Scout, was a member of the Order of the Arrow, and served as a Scoutmaster for several years. He was also a Kentucky Colonel and a 32nd Degree Mason (Scottish Rite). After moving to St. Louis, Max loved his time as a member of Forest Hills Country Club for many years, where he played golf most Saturdays and never missed a Father’s Day round with his three daughters. Max was an avid fan of Cardinal/Rams football, rarely missing a home game, and proudly supported Mizzou football and Cardinals baseball.
He cherished his “three girls,” his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren-each of whom viewed him as a mentor and confidant. Max always offered guidance and the best advice for navigating whatever life brought their way.
Max was preceded in death by his wife, Eva Marcum; his parents, Max and Annie K. Marcum; his brother, Joe Marcum; his sister, Marilyn Tyler; and his son-in-law, John Croak.
He is survived by his three daughters, Cindy Croak (Dan Dunbar), Nan Trecker (John), and Terri Hundelt (Brian); his grandchildren, Brittany Warren (James), Kyle Hundelt (Kara Williams), Adam Hundelt (Diane), Cory Shallert, Justin Croak, Sarah Hundelt, and Emily Croak; and his great-granddaughters, Victoria Hundelt and Emma Grace Warren.
A private ceremony was held on December 23, 2025, where his family shared laughter, stories, and celebrated in the joyful spirit Max always brought to every occasion. Max’s laughter, his jokes, his unwavering encouragement, and, most of all, his love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Memorial contributions can be made to Teen Challenge of St. Louis, 2650 Appletree Acres Lane. High Ridge, Mo. 63049.
