Max L Hershbarger

Max L. Hershbarger, 76, of rural Champaign, died peacefully at OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center Monday, November 22, 2021, with his son and his wife at his side.

Visitation will be held at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St., Champaign on Monday, November 29 from 3:00 to 5:00 PM.  Funeral services will be Tuesday, November 30 at 11:00 AM at the funeral home.  The Reverend Joseph Donton will officiate.  Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Urbana.

Max was born August 4, 1945, in Urbana, the son of Charles and Helen (Eichhorst) Hershbarger, who preceded him in death.  He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Elaine (Kick) and their son James (Megan) Hershbarger and grandchildren Lucas and Chelsey.

Max graduated from the University of Illinois with a master’s degree in animal sciences.  He loved farming and was proud to continue the legacy of the family farm.  Even in retirement he continued to help with repairs, moving equipment, and anything else that needed doing.  His years of experience helped a new generation take over the operation.

In his spare time, Max enjoyed repairing and collecting toy trains.  For many years he regularly volunteered to help prepare the used book sales at the Urbana Free Library.  He was well-read and loved to share his knowledge and experiences with others.

Memorials may be made to the Champaign County Farm Bureau Foundation Scholarship Fund, the Urbana Free Library Foundation, or Holy Cross Church, Champaign. 

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