Max Weisberg

Weisberg Max, age 79, one of the Twin Cities' most colorful characters, passedaway quietly on July 24th after a five month battle against pancreatic cancer. The second son of Russian immigrants, Max was born and raised in St. Paul. He left school in the fourth grade to work to help support his family. In his younger days, Max would hop a train and ride for days, before returning to St. Paul. For a time, he lived in Omaha, and later with his brother Solly in Chicago. But St. Paul was always home. Max and Solly would get up at 3:30 AM to go downtown to open their news stand on Wabasha and 7th. Maxie "Flowers," as he later became known, sold flowers at 21 flower stands across the Twin Cities, frequently stopping in all the late night downtown bars to sell his last batch of roses. After their parents passed away, Max and Solly continued to live in their parents' home in St. Paul. Almost like a couple who have been married forever, Max and Solly complemented each other's lives. When Solly died, Max said he lost his right arm. Max had an amazing ability for numbers and establishing odds on all the major sports. Las Vegas book makers frequently called him for his advice on setting the odds. Fiercely independent, Max lived alone until his last days. He was very gregarious and enjoyed striking up conversations with strangers. He often repeated what his parents impressed upon him: "you're a Weisberg and can always be proud of that." Indeed, Max earned the right to be proud of who he was. He was not only a Weisberg, but had a rare wisdom about life. He always cared for people and was respectful to everyone. Max was a kind and gentle man who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Max is preceded in death by his sister, Esther, formerly of Buffalo, New York, and his brother, Solly. He is survived by his sister, Helen Finesilver, his nephew John, both of Artesia, California, and niece Sonia of Buffalo, New York, and his many friends. Graveside services will be held Sunday at 11:00 AM at the Chesed Shel Emes Cemetery at 1620 Christie Place, St. Paul. Jewish Funeral Services of Minnesota (952) 922-2610.

Published on July 25, 2003