1946 — 2021
My buddy, my big brother, my confidante, Max Vela, passed away unexpectedly on March 11, 2021. Born in Chicago, Max came to San Francisco in the summer of 1969 after a stint in the U.S. Air Force. Right away, he knew he was home, and he proceeded to touch the lives of all those lucky enough to cross his path with his kindness, generosity, and humor. During the disco era, you would find him dancing the night away at Buzzby's on Polk Street. Every Halloween, he dressed up as a pill-popping Carmen Miranda, truly a sight to behold. For the last decade, Max took care of his beloved mother, Esther, who preceded him in death last June. I will miss our road trips, dining out, laughing and shrieking and carrying on. I don't want to live in a world without Max, but the show must go on, as he always reminded me. Until we meet again, my friend — someday, some way. Keep 'em laughing.
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