Maximus "Max" Xavier Thillemann's Obituary
Maximus “Max” Xavier Thillemann, age 19, passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2025. Max was born on March 20, 2006, in Racine, Wisconsin and lived a life defined by warmth, creativity, and a rare musical brilliance. The youngest of four siblings, Max brought an easy joy and a bright presence into every room he entered.
In 2010, at age four, Max and his family moved to Tampa, Florida, where he developed close, meaningful relationships with his maternal family, especially his Great-Aunt Fran and Great-Grandpa Ken. Their love and influence remained an important part of his life.
Max excelled in school and showed an early and unmistakable affinity for music. He adored Michael Jackson and The Beatles from a young age. As he grew, so did his talents—playing trumpet in middle school, experimenting with drums and keyboard, and ultimately discovering his greatest passion: the guitar.
There was rarely a quiet moment in the Thillemann home. Whether Max was practicing riffs on his guitar or spinning one of his cherished vinyl records, music flowed through every part of his day. His family cherished the soundtrack he created for their lives and will forever miss the background melodies that made their home feel full.
Max also found comfort in the company of his beloved cats—Kitty, Victor, and Bob—who were constant companions and a source of peace. He also enjoyed building and collecting Legos. Above all, Max treasured the time spent with his family, especially his best friend and brother, Jacob. As they grew up, if you saw Jacob, Max was never far behind. Both trained side by side for years in the martial art of Judo, a passion they shared wholeheartedly. Their father, Brian, joined them for two of those years and was honored to help teach their class. All three loved the sport, and through dedication and discipline, Max and Jacob each earned their Orange Belt after four years, while their father earned his Yellow Belt after two. Max carried special pride in the first time he won a Kumatae match against Jacob, a milestone he never forgot.
Max is lovingly remembered by and deeply missed by his parents, Brian and Lauren Thillemann; his sisters, Jessica Carmody and Emma Thillemann; his best friend and brother, Jacob Thillemann; his nephew and little buddy, Jameson Carmody; his grandmother, Sandra Thillemann; and many other loving family and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Karl Thillemann Jr.
Max’s life will be celebrated at the VFW Post 1391, 820 Main Street, Racine, WI on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. The family encourages everyone in attendance to wear band or cat T-shirts to commemorate Max. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions in remembrance of Max.
Max was so loved and cherished. His absence will be felt deeply by all who knew him. His smile could brighten any day, and the loss of that smile leaves a quiet ache in the hearts of those who loved him. Max will be remembered as a wonderful person whose kindness, talent, and unforgettable musical spirit enriched everyone. His family celebrates the joy he brought into their lives and holds close the beautiful notes he leaves behind.
Max. We love you and miss you so much!
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