Stevenson & Sons Funeral Homes

Serving families in the Miles City, Forsyth, Lame Deer, Broadus, Circle, Jordan and Terry areas for three generations.

For Immediate Help Call
Miles City: 406-232-4457 — Forsyth: 406-346-2311

In Memory Of

Max Bartholomew, age 53, of Miles City

January 19, 1963 – January 9, 2017

Max Bartholomew, age 53, of Miles City passed away on Monday, January 9, 2017 at the Holy Rosary Health Center in Miles City.

Max was born on January 19, 1963, the 2nd son of Don and Frances Bartholomew.  He spent the majority of his life on the family ranch up Liscomb Creek where he and his three brothers enjoyed many great adventures.  He attended school in Miles City graduating from Custer County High School in 1981.  Soon after graduation he went to Wheatland, WY to work as a bricklayer.  While visiting Max in WY, his father purchased a circular saw, which Max loved, and later moved home to work on the sawmill becoming a sawyer.  Through the years Max tried various types of band saws, and in 2014 he finally settled on a Baker Band Saw which made him very proud of the product that he was able to deliver to his customers.  After purchasing the new sawmill, Max was able to employ several employees which became lifelong family friends.

In 1986, Max met the love of his life Ruth Hof. Max courted Ruth around the dance floor for a short couple of years before making her his wife in 1988. To their union came 3 children whom Max was very proud of, 1st came a daughter Billie Rae, then son Matthew, and their family was complete on the arrival of their daughter, Randii Jo-ann.

Through the years Max and Ruth worked alongside Don and Frances on the family ranch and raised their children, teaching them the strong family values and work ethic. Max loved Ruth and the Girls’ home cooking, but he also loved his 3 kids working alongside him, whether it be with the livestock or at the sawmill, it was a family affair.

Max enjoyed delivering a load of lumber to a customer and being able to stop by the Bison Bar and chat with family and friends, or just play a friendly game of pool with one of his brothers.

In January 2016 Max was diagnosed with cancer. During Max’s illness he was very proud of his son Matthew, who took over Max’s dedication, taking care of the day to day operations of  the family ranch and filling customer’s orders at the sawmill.

Max is survived by his wife Ruth, 3 children: Billie Rae, Matthew, Randii Jo-ann; Father Don Bartholomew; Brothers: Mark (Karen) and Morris (Ragna); Sister-in-law Deb Bartholomew; Uncle Bill (Pansy) Jones; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and Max was like a father figure to Ruth’s siblings whom he cherished very much.

He was preceded in death by: his Grandparents: William and Evelyn Bartholomew, Clarence Jones and Claude “Bud” and June Bourn; his Mother Frances Bartholomew, and a Brother Miles Bartholomew.

Special Thank You to Dan and Aurora Wolf and Tessa Robertson for assisting in Max’s care and also to Swing Bed and Med-Surg Unit nurses for their outstanding care.

Thank you to all of Max’s customers.

Family will receive friends on Thursday, January 12, 2017 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Parlor, 1806 Main Street. Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 13, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City.  Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery.  Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent by visiting stevensonandsons.com.

Memorials can be made to Erin’s Hope Project or to Wake Up and Lace Up.

Service Schedule

Family to Receive Friends

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thursday January 12, 2017

The Parlor

1806 Main Street

Miles City, MT 59301

View map

Funeral Service

11:00 a.m.

Friday January 13, 2017

Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, MT 59301

View map

Graveside Service

following funeral service

Friday January 13, 2017

Custer County Cemetery

Miles City, MT 59301

View map

Service Schedule

Family to Receive Friends

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thursday January 12, 2017

The Parlor

1806 Main Street

Miles City, MT 59301

View map

Funeral Service

11:00 a.m.

Friday January 13, 2017

Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, MT 59301

View map

Graveside Service

following funeral service

Friday January 13, 2017

Custer County Cemetery

Miles City, MT 59301

View map

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Memories

Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.

  2. Max, since the time when we went to school together to present, has always been kind to me. I will miss him. My condolences.
    Kelly

  3. Ruthie, Billie Ray; Matthew, Randi, Mark, Morris and Don – I am so very sorry about Max. He was one of my favorite people, and my heart breaks for all of you – it’s been a rough year for you, and I pray that God covers you with his loving comfort.

    God bless you all.

  4. Dearest Ruth,
    my heart breaks for the loss of such a good man. I enjoyed working with himso many years ago at Cenex.
    Also the occasional run in around town where we would give give each other crap. He was a good honest man, who loved his family dearly. My prayers for you and your family. He will be missed by many.

  6. Condolences to the Bartholomew family, so sorry to hear this news. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

  8. So so sorry about Max. He was very proud of his wife and family, Ruth you need to be commended on the loving care you provided. He was such a kind and giving man. He donate to Wake-up & Lace-up last year and we were so glad for his contribution. My prayers

  9. My thoughts and prayers are with all of Max s family at this time. May all your memories help you everyday ! God Bless

  10. We are so sorry to hear of Max’s passing. It has sure been a rough year for your family and my heart aches for you all. I’m glad we got to see him this fall when we came and picked up the lumber Matt cut for us. I was sorry to hear of Francis’ passing too. What special people they were. May memories & our Lord bring you peace and comfort.

  12. Once again, many prayers to your family! So sorry for what you all have been through recently.

  14. I am so very sorry for your loss, may you find strength in others to get you through this very difficult time. GOD BLESS

  15. So sorry to hear of Max’s passing. Could always count on him to put a smile on my face. He will be greatly missed!! Prayers and Blessings for the whole family. May God bring you peace and comfort during this difficult time.

  16. Had a lot of fun with Max, Mark, and Morris in our younger days. My heart goes out to the family. I’m sorry to hear the loss of your mother, Frances, also. May the wonderful memories keep you wrapped in warmth.

  17. Condolences, thoughts, and many prayers to the family of this fine young man who grew up over the hill from us.

  21. I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Max will be missed. Condolences and prayers to his family and friends.

  22. So sorry to hear of the loss of a great friend husband and friend. My deepest condolences to mark as I know how close you two were. He was the kind of friend that time or distance had no place.If you were his friend you were a friend for life. I know that the influence of max on his children will produce the same kind of class,loyalty and integrity that Max had. Heaven is a better place with Max as the world was a better place with him on it .Rest easy my friend you will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

  23. Thoughts and prayers to you Ruth and the family. I went to high school with Max and he was always very kind and had a hello along with a smile.

  27. So sorry to hear of your family’s loss. Max was one of my favorite people,he always had a smile on his face and really liked teasing me. We would go back and forth, Max would always get last word in. Our deepest sympathy to all of the family. It is so hard to lose a husband, son, and brother. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

  28. Ruth and family…. I have thought off you and Max often in the past years. Of the friendship we shared. My heart hurts for the loss of a loving, funny, intelligent man. Love and prayers to you all.

  29. Max was one of my classmates and he always had a kind word for everyone. He will be missed. My deepest sympathies to you.

  30. I am so sorry to hear about Max. He was a wonderful guy with a great laugh and smile. It has been a hard year for you guys. Praying for all of Max’s family and loved ones.

  33. Galen and Omi Robertson says We never met met Mr Bartholomew but our Grand daughter Tessa did and was very fond of him.
    Our thoughts go out to his family and friends.

  34. Our thoughts & prayers to the Bartholomew family…Max will be missed by all…his humor touched so many…

  36. Condolences to the family. God has received a wonderful angel who will continue to look over his family from above .

  38. Ruth and family our thoughts and prayers are with you. Max was a great friend to Scott and he will surely miss the phone calls and conversations. All our love Scott and Becky

  39. We are so very sorry. You are in our thoughts and prayers, may the Lord hold you close!

  40. Ruth and family. We are so sorry to hear about Max. He was a fighter for sure and it is very sad for your family. We pray they will get this çancer behind them soon, but until they figure out for sure what causes it, it will be hard to cure. Hang onto the good memories. God Bless

  43. I was a classmate of Max, he learned his dance moves from the same person I did. Lots of great memories from FFA/FHA. So sorry for your loss.

  45. Max was so lucky to have you Ruth and all is his brothers & family!! I pray you all find peace & able to move forward soon! Take care, Cathy Pyle

  46. I”m so sad to hear this news about Max…he was my friend and fellow classmate who always made me laugh. I have great memories of 4-H, high school classes, FFA/FHA and dancing with Max. Peace be with all the family.

  47. Max was such a great guy. Years ago when I worked at Cenex he’d come in and was always joking with us. Years later when I had moved back to Miles City and my car wouldn’t start in the Ace Hardware parking lot. I reognized Max and asked him if he could give my car a jump start. He was happy to do so. Willing to help and share a kindness. I am sorry to hear of his passing. Miles City has lost a good neighbor. May you find peace and comfort in the Lord during this difficult time.

  48. I am so sorry for your loss Ruth. You and your family were some of my favorite customers at Country Market and I love talking with you guys. You were Blessed with a great husband and beautiful well behaved children. I will be praying that God sends you comfort and strength to help you through this time of grief. My heart goes out to you and yours.

  49. Ruth and family:keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Max will be greatly missed by all.

  50. Ruth, and family,brothers, and father, so sorry for your loss.prayers go out to you all. Max always had a hello, and you too Ruth! God bless you all. Sincerely, Mary AnnWells

  51. So very very sorry Don and family. Max was always good to me. May God bless you and yours. Hope to give you hugs soon. Rob b

  52. Condolences to Max’s family and friends. We were classmates, he was ALWAYS so kind, thoughtful and funny.
    A loss is always so very hard.
    Peace and warm thoughts be with you today and always.

  55. Dear Ruth, I see Max has been taken home with Jesus. Big hugs to comfort you! It has been a very hard year for you, I know. He was such a special guy-looked up to and loved by many. God bless and keep you at this difficult time.

  56. Ruth, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. When I worked at ACE, there was no one better at banter than Max. He dealt it out better than anyone I knew. He was very proud of the kids and family. He will be greatly missed by the community and everyone that came in contact with him.

  58. My heart goes out to the Bartholomew family at this every difficult time. Max was a very special and unique man that brought joy to so many.
    Our thought and prayers are with all of you. Hold onto the many wonderful memories and let them comfort you in the days ahead.
    Hugs.
    Lige and Mary Ann Murray

  59. I’m deeply saddened for the loss of such a kind and gentle soul. Max was a classmate of mine, and was always such a sweet and happy guy . May god bless all of his family at this sad and trying time

  60. We are so saddened by your loss – our heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with all of you in this time.

  61. Sending our thoughts and prayers to the Bartholemew family. It has been a rough year for your family. So sorry for your loss.
    Scott and Lisa Ziler (Sidney MT)

  63. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the Bartholomew family at this very difficult time. May god give you strength now, and in the days to come. God bless you all.

  64. Our deepest sympathy in this very difficult time. Max was a great man who will be sadly missed.

  65. Thoughts and prayers to all of you, love Chuck Wilhelm and Debra Wilhelm Nesbitt

  66. I am very saddened to hear of Max’s passing. I will miss my visits with him as I always seemed to run into Max about every time I was in town. My thoughts are with his entire family.

  67. I’m so sorry for your loss, I can tell your dad’s voice is ringing in your head as carry him with you through your daily lives. God bless and safe journey as well!

  68. So So Sorry for your Loss Praying for God to give you the strength now and in the days to come

  70. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. May god be with each and every one of you.

  71. Don and family, So heartbreaking to hear about Max’s passing. You are all in my prayers and thoughts. Meg

  72. Ruth and family, so sorry for your loss. I have many good memories of both you and Max. Send prayers!

  74. My Dear Cousin Max, your jaunty smile will forever be etched in my heart and mind. As ever, keeping ALL of you in my thoughts and Prayers. Love and Hugs, Rane Paulson

  75. My sympathy to your entire family. I remember you folks from a long time back. Take care.

  77. Hey Ruth, so sorry to hear about Max. FB gets the word out quick. I’ll be keeping you and your family in my prayers. Be well 🙂

  78. We are so sorry for your loss of Max. He will be missed by so many. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

  79. Ruth- Donnie & I are so sorry for your loss. You & your family are in our thoughts & prayers.

  80. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the whole Bartholomew family. Max was one of the good guys a kind, caring, hard working soul. Max cut all the logs for house he went out and found the most unique logs for our crazy house plans. He took great pride in his work and it did not go unnoticed or unappreciated. Eric and I thought the world of him and so enjoyed his company and friendship. Heaven gained a special Angel on Jan 9th.

  81. We are so sorry for your loss. I will miss Max coming in the store and talking chain saws saw mills. God bless.

  82. Dear Ruthie, So sorry for your loss. When I was a young mother I remember you very well as a little girl who grew up into a sweet young lady. I never knew Max or your family, it sounds like you all had a very good life. Keep those wonderful memories close to all of you. Darlene

  83. We are so sorry for your loss. Max was good friend and we will miss him greatly. Please know that our prayers of comfort and support for you and your family will be forthcoming from us now and days to come.

  85. Ruth & family, So sorry. Death is so very hard & lonely. Know how much Max loved you all…You are all in our prayers.With our deepest sympathy..Diana & Floyd

  87. Ruth, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Although we never met Max or your children our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time and in days and weeks to come. Sincerely, Lorraine Holliday and family

  88. SO SORRY TO HEAR AB OUT MAX, HE FOUGHT A HARD BATTLE BUTSTILL WON AS HE IS IN A BETTER PLACE WITHOUT PAIN. OUT PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE WHOLE FAMILY AND WISH THE BEST FOR YOU. REMEMBER ALL THE GOOD TIMES AND YOU WERE VERY BLESSED TO HAVE HIM .RIP WITH MOM AND KEEP HER COMPANY. GOD BLESS YOU ALL THE GARY HELM FAMILY ONE AND ALL

  89. To each member of Max’s family ~ We were deeply saddened to learn of Max’s death. Each of you are in our prayers and thoughts for comfort and peace during the difficult days, weeks and months to follow. Max was a treasure – and, we always enjoyed visiting with him.

  90. We are so saddened to hear of Max’s death. We always enjoyed a good visit with him whenever we saw him in town. It has been a rough year for all of the Bartholomew family. We are praying that God will comfort you with good memories and give you peace and comfort in the days ahead.

  91. I was unaware of his health battle…..I am so sorry, but I am praying for all of you to find strength, peace and comfort in the days ahead. May you feel the loving arms of Jesus holding all of you in these times, and the months to come.

  93. So sorry to hear of Max’s passing. I only wished I had known him and his family sooner, such a wonderful people. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

    Shona Ackman
    “I’ve seen and met angels
    wearing the disguise of ordinary people living ordinary lives”
    Tracy Chapman

  95. We are so saddened to hear about Max. You kids can be so proud of your parents . They showed you how to make it in this old world. This shows how much they loved you.

  97. So sorry to hear about max he was a good man and friend been a rough year on the Bartholomew family this year our prayers go out to you all will sure miss max

  100. Lynn Holland says,
    Sorry to hear about Max. He will be missed by those knew him. Thoughts and prayers
    to the Bartholomew family at this time.

  101. Bartholomew families your family has endured a very sorrowful year. Through God’s grace you’ll all find peace and comfort with time. .so sorry for your loss. All our sympathy ..Monte and Pat Herzog

  102. Dearest Bartholomew families;
    I am so sorry to hear about all the recent losses of Frances and now Max. My love and prayers are sent out your way. May the Lord comfort you all in these times of loss. You are all remain in my heart with good memories. Lots of love. Bonita Day.

  103. Ruthie and family: You may remember me, from another life, as “Aunt Becky”. It has been many years but I have thought of you often. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I know that there is nothing that can be said to help you feel any better. Please just knowanted that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. My heart hurts for you! I hope the love you had, your years of memories, and God’s love will sustain you in the difficult months ahead. Love you.

  104. Deepest and heartfelt sympathies to you and yours, Ruth. Max was one of a kind, truly! Love and peace to you always, from your little Broadus ‘sister’.

  105. Oh Ruth I am so sorry to hear about Max! You and Bev Ferrall Johnson and I hung around with each other when you two met and I will never forget that! He was an amazing man, father and husband to you and what a great dancer and friend he was! I love you my friends and hope that all the thoughts and prayers headed your way make this a little easier for you! Love you! Phyllis

  106. My condolences to the Bartholomew family. Max was a good man and a good friend who was taken too soon. I was just thinking about Max a few weeks ago and thought about giving him a call. I’m sorry I didn’t.

    I knew Max as a true Christian, a genuine cowboy and a friend. In Max’s memory I think 1 Corinthians 2:9 would be appropriate.

    “However, as it is written: ‘What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no man mind has conceived the things God has prepared for those who love him'”. (NIV)

    Thank you for being a friend, Max. You will be sorely missed. To the Kingdom!

  107. Ruth and the Bartholomew family my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Max was an amazing person and will never be forgotten.

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