Max Shannon Teat, Jr., 76, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on January 4, 1948, in El Paso, TX, to Max Shannon Teat, Sr. and Nancy Helen (Threadgill) Teat, Max lived a life rich in experiences and deeply rooted in love and commitment. As the eldest of four siblings, he was a protective and devoted big brother.
In 1966, Max was awarded the prestigious Kane Scholarship at College High School in Bartlesville, OK, an honor bestowed upon one outstanding student chosen by teachers, principals, and coaches. This scholarship paved the way for his studies at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M in Miami, OK, where he played football and pursued a pre-veterinary program. Max later earned his Master's in Business Administration from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, OK, in 1979, a testament to his dedication to lifelong learning.
For the past 30 years, Max made Tulsa his home, where he became a cherished member of the community. He was immensely proud to have served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he managed the base mess hall with unwavering diligence. His service earned him the Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM) and the Marksmanship Badge, symbols of his commitment and excellence. Max's patriotism ran deep, and he was a proud American who never missed an opportunity to express his love for his country.
Max's career journey was one of entrepreneurship and passion. After graduation, he ventured into various industries before finding his true calling as a business consultant. With his vast knowledge and expertise, Max guided small businesses across the nation, helping them thrive and succeed. Despite the demands of his career, Max always prioritized his family. He was a constant presence at his children's and grandchildren's sporting events, cheering them on with pride.
A man of many talents, Max was also a gifted musician. He sang in the church choir and played bass guitar in various bands, including local favorites Moonlit Highway and Boulevard. His love for music extended to running sound equipment for local artists. On weekends, Max could often be found riding his Harley or Indian motorcycle, embracing the freedom of the open road. He even made the pilgrimage to Sturgis, fulfilling his dream of being a "legit" biker. Known for his culinary skills, Max was famous for his hearty breakfasts, which brought family and friends together around the table.
Max was preceded in death by his parents, Max Shannon Teat, Sr. and Nancy Helen Teat. He is survived by his beloved wife, Milisa Teat of Tulsa, OK; his six children, Meagan Malone of Lewisville, TX, Shane Teat of Rockwall, TX, Mignon Teat of Bixby, OK, Seth Rosson and his wife Emily of Tulsa, OK, Mariah Wagner and her husband Jeff of Drumright, OK, and Jacob Rosson of Tulsa, OK; his brother, Roger Teat and his wife Kathy of Cherry Log, GA; his two sisters, Patricia Kay and her husband Don of Mead, OK, and Marcie Waldeck and her husband Tom of Ramsey, NJ; and his seven grandchildren, Clifton Burrus, Natalia Teat, Henry Rosson, Teagan Wagner, Bear Rosson, Aylin Wagner, and Evelyn Wagner. He is also remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of longtime friends.
A funeral service to celebrate Max's life will be held on Saturday, September 7th, 2024, at 11 AM in the Southlawn Chapel of Moore Funeral Home. Max's legacy of love, service, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.