Max Keith Hastain

Max Keith Hastain

Oct. 26, 1948-Sept. 11, 2026

Max Keith Hastain passed away at home in the early hours of Sept. 11, 2026, in Moscow, Idaho, after a courageous struggle with myelofibrosis. He was born Oct. 26, 1948 in Springfield, Missouri to Leonard and Evelyn Hastain.

He graduated from Bolivar High School where he excelled in football as a defensive linebacker and guard and as catcher for the baseball team. Max volunteered for the draft and was proud of his service and his duty to his country.

He held various jobs, earned a BS degree from Southwest Missouri State University, and graduated first in his class from the Water & Wastewater Technical School, Neosho, Missouri, and worked in that field until his retirement.

Max lived simply. That is not to say he was a simple person. He was a bit of an idealist and genuinely expected the best from everyone. He was a good communicator with a large vocabulary. He had a great imagination and wit combined with an innate sense of humor. Not only did he hold no guile but he held no greed in his heart for fame nor worldly possessions.

He is survived by his loving wife Edna (Schmitt) Hastain; stepdaughter Sarah (Dean) Campbell of Missoula, Montana; stepson Danny Compton of Portland, Oregon; siblings, Janice Kopkau of Plainfield, Illinois, and Kirk (Linda) Hastain of Anchorage Alaska; two nieces and a nephew.

He was a member of Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Polk County Missouri, and leaves a very well worn Bible as a testament to his love for the Lord.

A memorial and pot luck shall be held Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026 at 12 p.m., at 1546 Borah Ave., Moscow, Idaho. Regards may be sent to 420 D Street, Moscow ID 83843.