Max Burton McKanna, 75, of Columbus Grove, passed away at 2:07 a.m. on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, in his home.

Born on August 11, 1949, in Lima, Ohio, he was the son of the late Clyde “Jay” and Ruby (Bridenbaugh) McKanna. On August 16, 1969, he married Kathy (Wright) McKanna, who survives in Columbus Grove. Max was a 1967 graduate of Columbus Grove High School, attended OSU Lima, and graduated in 1972 from Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Mo.

He was an assistant pastor at First Baptist Church in Ashland, Ohio, for six years before becoming the pastor of Crusade Baptist Church in Copley, Ohio, where he served for 39 years. Retiring from full-time ministry in 2017, he returned to Northwest Ohio and filled pulpits for many fellow preachers until recent months. Max was a member of Faith Baptist Church in Ottawa, Ohio, where he led the music service. Because of his love and concern for youth, he also spoke at many areas of FCA Huddles giving the gospel message.

He is also survived by his sons, Bruce (Katie) McKanna of Mt. Morris, IL, Brent (Melissa) McKanna of Austin, TX, and Brian (Kami) McKanna of Columbus Grove; siblings, Jon (Linda) McKanna, Don (Audrey) McKanna, Scott (Pam) McKanna, Jennie (Gary) Good, Joe (Jayne) McKanna, and Jule McKanna; brothers-in-law, Ken (Jean) Wright and Dale (Joyce) Wright; and grandchildren, Jack, Andrew, Ethan, Ella, Eric (Faith), Chelsea, and Clara. He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Ian McKanna.

The funeral service is at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Emmanuel Church, 210 S High St., Columbus Grove with visitation one hour prior. Visitation is also 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm Friday, December 27, 2024, at Hartman-Rousculp Community Funeral Home, 10879 OH-12, Columbus Grove. Burial in Osborn Cemetery, Columbus Grove. Preferred memorials in Max’s name to the building fund of Faith Baptist Church, Ottawa. To share online condolences please visit www.harperfuneralhome.com