Obituaries

I had the honor of spending some of every single day with Max from the time he was 8 until he was 14 - Much of that time was spent talking about girls, school, friends and family...life. He was well beyond his years. Creative, funny, thoughtful, introspective, questioning. He was a devoted son, grandson and brother. It's no wonder the adult he became brought all of those wonderful things, and more, to the world. I wish we could grab dinner and reminisce. Max, you will be missed!

Posted by Danny Corsun on July 20, 2022

I miss you so much.

Posted by Anonymous on February 21, 2022

Hi Max. I miss you every day. You knew so much and so gracefully passed on advice to me, as a friend. You were there for me. We grew up eerily similar: locale, industry, bright lights, strong family, love of animals and a golden life. I keep on saying there is a transference of friendship. We would complete each other’s thoughts, you understood where I was coming from, a lot was said but maybe more was left unsaid. Sometimes I don’t know where I begin and where you end. You are love and you are loved Max. That genuineness is even more amazing than your die from laughing humor. And the biggest heart. You and I loved each other and I still love you. Always will. Always will miss you. Thanks. xoxo, Griffin

Posted by Griffin Hamill on August 21, 2021

Max, you were such a good friend to me when were kids and I’m so grateful for all the fun times we had. I feel like we both kind of saved each other in middle school. I’m heartbroken that I wasn’t there to save you this time. You always just wanted to make people happy and keep them laughing and that’s what I’ll remember most about you. My heart is broken for your parents and Emma. I wish we had spent more time together after high school. You introduced me to so many interesting things and you were just a really special person. Thank you for making so many lives better by just being you. I’ll never forget you, my friend. Friends forever

Posted by Justin S. on August 13, 2020

Seen a shooting star tonight And I thought of you You were trying to break into another world A world I never knew I always kind of wondered If you ever made it through Seen a shooting star tonight And I thought of you -- Bob Dylan Max, you will be forever in our hearts and in our sky. We miss you dearly. xox Terri, Casey, & Cody

Posted by Terri, Casey, & Cody Baird on July 4, 2020

My heart is broken. When you left us a part of me left too. I‘m having a hard time accepting the fact that you’re no longer around. I want to thank you for being an amazing big brother who was always there for me, and for giving me some of the funniest and best moments of my life. I will miss our late night talks at Izzy’s...some of which were serious and somber and others that were hilarious and just downright ridiculous. I would often feel that it was as if we spoke our own language that only we could understand. I promise to always carry you with me and keep your memory alive, till we meet again. Love You Maxo!

Posted by Seth Sandler on June 30, 2020

Max was an amazing and beloved friend. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit lives on.

Posted by Josh Rothstein on June 29, 2020

I had the great pleasure of hiring Max as a writer on a sketch pilot I was doing several years ago. It was an absolute joy working with Max, he was witty, dry (like his venerated Dad) and oh so funny, observant and sly. I adored the time we spent and saw enormous potential in his unique voice. I send my deepest condolences to the whole family and may his memory live on in everyone's heart. xo

Posted by tamara rawitt on June 28, 2020

Dearest Max, We have so many fond memories of you. I laugh every time I think of you standing in front of my pantry. "Whoa! Look at all this great stuff you have in here!" (Probably everything you weren't supposed to have, like goldfish crackers, chips, cookies, junk food.) You were so astonished when I said, "Help yourself darling".. Big smile. We have a great picture of you in Ken's airline captain's hat when you were little. Remembering you, Benjamin, Emma and Julie on the beach in Malibu enjoying the summer, your Bar Mitzvah, Emma's Bat Mitzvah, and especially remembering how sweet you were to your sister. We are in deep sorrow of your loss but we will always love you and support and love your family. We'll share their memories of you to help all of us remember your sweet soul. Zichrono Lvrachah. Lynn and Ken

Posted by Ken and Lynn Sass on June 28, 2020

Max, you were always welcome at our house and you even sat in my massage chair while we all watched shows. I loved that you were Freddie’s step son. You told me that the first time you came over. You and Griffin were good friends. You cared about Griffin and he cared about you. You both were great artists and writers. He and so many others miss you. I hope you are happy and at peace ... always.

Posted by Marilou Hamill on June 27, 2020

your one of my best friends / family ...basically my brother from another mother in this lifetime... I will miss u forever Maxo... we will go to taco bell and hang in grandma’s house in another life time for sure. I love you bro <333 Thank you for everything in this life... i am so blessed to have had you in my life.

Posted by Anonymous on June 27, 2020

Heart wrenching. Nothing but talent and charm. So smart. So unique. Love and thoughts to the family. Would love to know if/when their will be a service.

Posted by Alex on June 26, 2020

Dear Mike, Emma, Fredde, Sally...all who loved dear Max. My heart aches for you, for the loss of your "soulful, caring, chatty, hilarious mensch with a heart so true dogs adored him, yet had such a hard time lapping some of the love on himself. I only met Max one time. He was a little boy, and we were going to go out to dinner. Max didn't want to go. He said his legs hurt, "I'm having growing pains." I believed him. I love seeing Max's Masterpieces, hearing how much laughter he shared with you and how much he loved kids. I hope that after the unbearable pain of this early time of grief passes, you will think of Max's smile and laughter, the many bold colors in which he painted and that you will feel his loving presence with you. --Margie

Posted by Margie Adler on June 26, 2020

oh what to say. something for you? or for your family? i feel grateful we did more than just meet. we talked and texted and shared so many of the same flaws and frailties. we have pieces of you in our home. so honored by your work done just for us. on the wall with hockney and lichtenstein and serra. i know you loved that. you outshine them. our maxterpieces give some comfort. we feel you. and we will miss ever seeing you again. find julie and ruby and lincoln. they’re somewhere out there. my family is yours....rip. forever. robin and gino

Posted by Robin Albertelli on June 25, 2020

Our deepest condolences to the Robinson and Barrie Family. Thank you for sharing Max with us. We will treasure our time spent together with him. He always brought joy and laughter to our lives. Xox

Posted by Rubin family on June 25, 2020

I’m still having a hard time like others believing this is real. Reading what everyone has to say about you And Im in tears. You were loved so much. You were a friend, my friend and you taught me that I didn’t have to be where everyone was in their life. You listened to be rant about mediocre things and messy days. Always uplifting and letting me know things were going to be okay. Thank you for being the different in my life and always making me laugh. Even though we were always just checking in on each other our conversation and time spent meant a lot to me. You will be missed and forever loved. Thinking of you always T.

Posted by Victoria Rubin on June 25, 2020

Hey Max, I forgot to include the rest of the Weingart family. We all loved you.

Posted by Uncle Eddie on June 24, 2020

I held you when you came into this world and brought so much joy! You left without warning and gone to soon. My memories are what I have left and I will never forget. My sweet Max my baby beluga May you find the peace you searched for May your spirit soar in freedom, free of all fears. I love you and will always treasure our adventures.

Posted by Doula on June 24, 2020

When you were young I remember chasing fireflies with you and seeing the joy and happiness that was such a part of you. I also remember taking you on a Snipe hunt and seeing how disappointed you were when you found out that there was no such thing. There were so many parts that made you Max Barrie. Of course your painting and writing showed your talent and uniqueness, but it was your tender loving soul that will endure in the hearts of those that knew and loved you. Oh, one more thing. Don't forget to take your pillow case in case I am wrong about that Snipe. Love Eternal, Uncle Eddie...

Posted by Uncle Eddie on June 24, 2020

Hey Max. Susan and I were there when you were born! We have great memories of when you were young and when I came to Los Angeles on my many business trips. Unfortunately we didn’t see much of you...living in New York. On Dads trips East and on our walks/lunches together, Dad always kept me abreast of your accomplishments. Both Susan and I feel this deep sadness for our old and dear friend Mike, Sally and of course Emma. To the entire Barrie family...we feel deeply saddened of your pain. We hope that you Max, have found a better place. Rest In Peace. Alan Sealove, and the entire Sealove family.

Posted by Alan and Susan Sealove on June 24, 2020

I cannot believe we are talking about Max in the past tense. My heart breaks for the family, but also for all of Max's friends, each of whom he loved so dearly. Max had a wonderfully unique outlook and means of expression. A true artist. Funny, kind, considerate, and so loving. There are so many things I could say about how awesome Max was, but the thing that stands out the most to me, beyond his humanity, was his absolute pride in his family. He was so proud of everyone, from his father and mother and stepmother, to his siblings, blood and step alike. I was lucky to have experienced being on the receiving end of Max's pride a couple of times; and it was pure. He truly knew how to be happy for others, unconditionally. It was a great blow when I heard the tragic news. Wishing rest and peace to Max, who will be deeply missed, along with love, peace and deepest condolences to the entire family. Rest in peace Max... xo

Posted by Anonymous on June 24, 2020

Max, you will be missed by all of us. So happy you were there to celebrate my 80th with your wonderful smile. So thrilled you were with me on a very special occasion. Rest In Peace knowing how much you were loved and will be missed. Cookie?

Posted by Cookie Barrie Kaplan on June 24, 2020

I first met Max as a little boy. Immediately, we were kindred souls. I 'did' have a sense this adorable, funny, whip-smart lad 'could' find the harshness of life a struggle. He was tough, but delicate. A confusing combination. Sometimes God calls his gems like max home quicker than the others. My prayers are with Sally and Emma. Love always.

Posted by Harris Goldberg on June 24, 2020

My Cousin Max, unfortunately I didn’t get to spend much time with you because we lived on opposite sides of the country, you in California & me, in New York. I did go on your Instagram Account. I learned a lot of wonderful things about you. You were a talented Artist. You had a great sense of humor. You were warm, kind, sensitive & clever. You loved dogs. I love Dogs. Apparently very generous with your time. You so remind me of my dear Cousin Michael. A some point I would love to get of your pieces of Art to hang in my house to remind me how talent you were. I can tell you that you will be surely missed by many. Cousin Max you will always be in my thoughts & heart. With much love, Your Cousin Ellen

Posted by Ellen Barrie Elias on June 24, 2020

My Cousin Max, Unfortunately I didn’t know you well because we lived on opposite side of the Country, you in California & me in NY. I wished I could have spend time with you. I did go on your Instagram account & learned a lot about you. You were a talented artist. You had a great sense of humor. You were sweet, kind & sensitive. Apparently very generous with your time. You loved Dogs. I love Dogs. When I read your postings & looked at your photos, you so remind me of your dad, my dear Cousin Michael. You will truly be missed & loved. I would love to have one of your pieces of Art at some point. Cousin Max you are in my heart & thoughts forever. Much love, Your Cousin Ellen

Posted by Ellen Barrie Elias on June 24, 2020

Hey my Max. I’m so sad that you are gone. I’m going to miss our late night chats. And your beautiful paintings. You were too good for this place. At least now you can have a good nights sleep wherever you are. Love you Max. See you soon.

Posted by Mel on June 24, 2020

Hey Max. You’ve been there. Funerals where the eulogists go on, on, on Insufferably on. A BS portrait. You painted and wrote and lived. Unfiltered. Unapologetic. Nonfiction . It’s all there. In. out. between the lines. I hear your voice. Still. Oh that we had met .. Jenn.

Posted by Jennifer Dudley Arbaugh on June 24, 2020

Maxo, I didn't have the pleasure of meeting you, but I feel I know you through all of the lives that you touched. I'm saddened by your death and saddened that the folks that loved and cared for you are so devastated by your passing.

Posted by David Mancini on June 24, 2020

Max, I can't believe you left us SO soon! You promised to go to the gym & grow old with me. I will miss your optimistic, witty outlook on life, our conversations, and your random texts/pictures. I hope you are in a better place: one that is filled with white bean chili and pizza for when I can finally see you again!! Not one day will go by where you are not missed or thought of. Sending you lots of hugs and love...

Posted by Anonymous on June 23, 2020

Max, Some souls are just too good for this world. I hope you are finally at peace. Sending my deepest condolences to your loved ones who are left to navigate their grief. <3

Posted by Holly Lebed on June 23, 2020

Fare well on your new journey Max. Peace, blessings, condolences and love to those you have temporarily left behind.

Posted by Rex SIkes on June 23, 2020

So painful to think of the world without Max in it. We hadn't spoken in a while but still my heart breaks at the thought. Gentle, generous, unexpected in so many ways. The light, the dark. This makes me so sad and my heart goes out to his family and close friends.

Posted by Elle on June 23, 2020

Max, your big heart and incredible wit are deeply missed by us, the extended Barrie crew, and your long list of fans. We will always keep that cool cat smile close to our hearts. Your dad has shown us nothing but love, and we are here for his, Emma, and the whole family\'s support.

Posted by Pam, Ken, & Lauren Bergman on June 23, 2020

For the last week, Max, I've found myself saying some form of "there are no words," when I've written to your family about you. But what I've realized is that's simply not true. There are words, and maybe coming from me, they're even clumsy words, words of sorrow, but they're words, and they come from the heart. You were special, Max. Special and unique and wickedly talented in a family that has an abundance of all those things. You captured my attention from the minute I met you, and now with the always perfect hindsight we inevitably see in our rearview, I wish i had more opportunities to get to know you better. I'm deeply saddened that it didn't happen. Happy travels, Maxo. I hope your new journey brings you peace and a genuine acceptance of the love you had here. As you can see, there is enough to carry you through many lifetimes. Do us a favor, though, if you can? Let us know what the heaven goes on out there. It's time somebody gives up the goods, why not you? ?

Posted by Joyce Hyser Robinson on June 23, 2020

The heart does care how long you know someone - it is timeless - It cares only about resonance. Thank you Maxo for your wit, your art, your kindness and for introducing me/sharing my first Godmother sandwich at Bay Cities. I’ll always think of you with a smile.

Posted by DeeDee Lancet on June 23, 2020

Max, we never got to meet and I feel cheated! Your kindness and talent will be missed. You left us too early but we’ll forgive you and love you

Posted by Bettsie Oros on June 23, 2020

Stating the obvious, laughing at the mundane, all of it up for scrutiny, the details of life - hours on the phone, all of us staring into the ocean endlessly – hands down, the absolute best! You filled our lives forever and ever. Love you, Max. Aunt Nansi & Uncle Alan

Posted by Nansi Barrie on June 23, 2020

“Maxterpiece” kinda says it. Miss you madly, my Max-man!

Posted by Uncle David on June 23, 2020

Max, it\'s too soon for you to leave us. I didn\'t have enough of our long conversations, jokes and giggles, talks about standup comedy, art and reminiscing about stupid stuff. You\'ve been a part of our lives your whole life and though we lived many miles apart you were always so dear to us. So adorable as a little boy, always looked great in hats. We shared common ground and you were often the only one who posted on my Instagram. You grew into a sweet, sensitive man with so much to offer and offered so much. So sad that you\'re gone. I love and will miss you forever. Love always, Aunt Susan

Posted by Susan Barrie Sussman on June 23, 2020

Max, you will be loved forever...your smile, your humor, your art and your warmth of heart! This is not a goodbye but rather an alternate path. We will sense your presence for ever!

Posted by Donald H Sussman on June 23, 2020

Max, you left us all way too soon and our hearts ache because of it. Your brilliant wit is what I remember most about the times I have spent with you. And your kindness. What more do you want from a friend but kindness and brilliance? You ticked the most important boxes and you will forever be missed. We love you Max.

Posted by Kimberly Beck Clark on June 23, 2020

You were a special, sweet, kind and considerate person. I remember holding you as an infant, your smiling up at me and thinking how lucky you were to have a father like Michael. Recently you wrote Charlotte and me a heartfelt newly married congratulations email. It was articulate and expressed to us just the right sentiment. It was very appreciated. I remarked to Char how well you were doing and what fine young man you had grownup to be. You will always be remembered by us this way!

Posted by Alan Ramer on June 23, 2020

Still in a state of shock. You were a sweet soul that will be dearly missed.

Posted by Annie Brunner on June 23, 2020

Dear Max: When I worked with your dad on monologue I could hear you down in the kitchen making your sister laugh by acting out crazy scenes from movies. I used to think, “Maybe he should be in here and I should be out there.” You will be greatly missed.

Posted by Jim Mulholland on June 23, 2020

Oh Max, my heart hurts. You were so very special and loved by all. You will be missed but never forgotten. I love you cousin!

Posted by Jill Nordquist on June 23, 2020

I had the pleasure and privilege of knowing Max since he was a little boy. I watched him grow into a good-hearted, loving adult. He was always quick with a smile, a laugh, a hug and a loving word. I know I am but one of many who will miss him.

Posted by Billy Vera on June 23, 2020

Max, I already miss your smile and your laugh so much. You are beyond unique and I know whoever got to meet you never forgot you. Your family and your friends love you and promise to keep you alive through memories told forever. I just want to thank you for being you Max. I love you!

Posted by Barnaby Duke on June 23, 2020

Max was truly a warm and wonderful person, the times I was fortunate to spend time with him. I felt very lucky.

Posted by Benjamin and Nina Elias on June 23, 2020

I had coffee with Max a few years ago, and it didn't take long for me to grasp his wit, charm, and intelligence. Mostly I knew him through his father, who--as all loving parents do--shared his struggle. The frustrations, relentless challenges and ultimate powerlessness over the disease creates a cruel bond. But Max's life was about so much more. His writing, like him, was sharp, funny, honest, and insightful. He is already--and will continue to be--dearly missed.

Posted by Billy Frolick on June 23, 2020

Such a tremendous loss to all those lucky enough to have known you. Memories of you with your quick wit and huge heart will forever make us smile. Sending love and strength to all who mourn you.

Posted by David and Tracy Berglass on June 23, 2020

Max -- my brilliant, funny step-son. We were/are so much alike that I forgot I didn't give birth to you. I will never forget how big your heart was. How you cared for all of us. Checking on us. Checking on your friends. What a gift you were to your family and this world. If you think I was obsessed with my father, sharing him with the world -- just wait till you see (Hopefully you somehow will) what I have in store for you. Thank you for enjoying all the wacky Maurice Duke-isms. I wish you hadn't taken that cab so soon. I love you, Maxo.

Posted by Fredde Duke on June 22, 2020