Max Checketts, aged 68, passed away on April 6th, 2024, from a presumed heart attack. Born on March 5th, 1956, in Providence, Utah, he spent his formative years in the western United States before graduating from Paonia High School in Colorado.

A beacon of warmth and compassion, he graced the world with his infectious laughter and boundless kindness. In his youth, he wielded his towering stature on the basketball court, channeling his passion for the sport.

Max and Donna embarked on a new chapter in 1982, relocating to Rexburg to pioneer the dairy program at Ricks College. Evolving into an esteemed administrator, he played a pivotal role in the transition to BYU-Idaho, and later served as the Academic Vice President. For 25 years, Rexburg was their home until Max assumed the same role at BYU-Hawaii for 7 fruitful years. Yet, amidst his varied roles, he remained steadfast in his identity as a farmer.

A devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Max's life was defined by service. From his mission in Edinburgh, Scotland, to leadership roles in the Church, including mission president in Sydney, Australia, and Temple president of the Rexburg, Idaho Temple. His dedication was unwavering. His most cherished calling, however, was that of a Sunday School teacher, where he shared his deep understanding of Church History and unwavering testimony.

Max's spirit of adventure led him to explore numerous states, countries, and continents, leaving an indelible mark on people worldwide. Yet, his most profound impact was felt within the walls of his own home. United in marriage to Donna in the Salt Lake City Temple on May 4th, 1978, they would have celebrated their 46th anniversary next month. Together, they nurtured six children in Salem, Idaho, and reveled in the joys of grandparenthood, currently counting 26 grandchildren with two more on the way.

He is survived by his wife Donna, children Shayla (Spencer) Smith, Kelly (Charity) Checketts, Clint (Audrey) Checketts, Wyatt (Brittney) Checketts, Katie (Kristopher) Wilson, Ian (Andrea) Checketts, grandchildren Madilynn, Devanee, Daniel, Haela, Ezra, Enoch, Chloe, Brecken, Ephraim, Clark, Oliver, Daxton, Salem, Kendrick, Jaina, Kaden, Taysom, Lincoln, Adilae, Kolter, Kyler, Monrovia, Claire, Zane, Kaisley, Kodiak and twins coming soon!

Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 13 the Taylor Chapel on BYUI campus.  The family will receive friends Friday evening from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Flamm Funeral Home and again from 9:00 to 9:30 a.m at the Taylor Chapel prior to services.

Service will be broadcasted at: https://video.byui.edu/media/t/1_t52x2q9f

Also at: https://my.gather.app/remember/max-checketts