Memorials help us stay connected, heal, and find comfort in the years ahead. They preserve the values and impact of those we love, for us and for those who never knew them.

For Max, we want to create a sanctuary, a place to invite family, friends, and anyone who needs a respite from the noise of life. Building a haven for people to abide, remember, and reflect in a still, untroubled place feels like the obvious next step.

Last August, Max showed us the perfect spot, even though we didn't know it then. The vision comes from a photo of Max sitting in the hayloft door of an old barn, looking out at a knoll on the far side of our small Vermont farm. It was the last time we were all together as a family. Here's what we see:

A sloping path leads off a country road inviting friends, loved ones, and neighbors in. At the end of the path, a knoll with sweeping views of rolling Vermont farmland and distant mountains is planted with a majestic grove of maple, birch, beech, and oak trees. Seating is scattered amid dappled light in summer and blazing color in autumn. Here, even in the company of others, the space feels like your own. There is warmth from a fire when the cold settles in, and gentle light for the evenings when it doesn't. Tucked just behind the hilltop is a new family plot where Max is laid to rest—with a marker that reminds us he lived, and we loved him.

Max loved life and he loved his people. He had a gift for seeing people as they were and was happy to meet them there. He would be so pleased to know "his grove" is a place where friends and strangers alike can celebrate joy, come to terms with loss, or simply find peace and solace.

Bind me not to the pasture Chain me not to the plow Set me free to find my calling And I'll return to you, somehow —"Homeward Bound," Marta Keen

Right now, only the land and the idea exist. We will begin planning this spring, and shaping and earthwork later this summer. Next year we will begin purchasing and planting a variety of full-size mature trees along with smaller ones and other lovely, flowering things. We will place Max's marker once everything is prepared. We hope to have it completed by autumn of 2028.

If you would like to contribute to the planning and building of Max's Grove, you can donate to Max's Memorial Grove Fund. We will keep everyone updated with progress photos and all are welcome to visit while it is underway.

Las Vegas Memorial: Tuesday, February 17, 2026

New York City Memorial: Saturday, March 14, 2026