Max Harrington-Knopf, 34, passed away suddenly April 30, 2025, leaving behind a family and community who adored him.
Born in Red Bank, Max was the treasured youngest child of Marshall and Janice Harrington-Knopf, the deeply loved brother of Emily, Jenny and Laura.
A graduate of The Ranney School and New York University, Max earned his MBA from the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado. An entrepreneur at heart, Max poured his energy and enthusiasm into a wide range of ventures, from founding Bounce Boat to exploring real estate development and crypto, to working alongside his father and sister in the automotive industry.
Max had a magnetic spirit and a dazzling smile that lit up every room. He had a rare gift for connection and made people feel instantly at ease. He was steady, dependable and always there when it mattered most. His wide circle of friends could always count on him to show up, support them and share in the joy and messiness of life. Max’s countless close friendships and his loving relationship with his girlfriend Medina reflected the kind of person he was: genuine, thoughtful, kind, warm and deeply loyal.
To his many cousins, nieces and nephews, Max was the quintessential “fun uncle,” always up for an adventure, ready to play and happy to get into whatever mischief the kids dreamed up. He loved them wholeheartedly and they absolutely adored him in return. To them, Uncle Max wasn’t just the best; he was the coolest, the kindest and the most fun grown-up they knew.
Max was someone who truly enjoyed life. He loved to travel, fish and be on the water. He found joy and energy in cold plunges, saunas, yoga and staying active, and he appreciated the little luxuries, like a great meal or a nice pair of shoes. He was grounded, hopeful and always dreaming big.
Max is survived by his girlfriend, Medina; his parents, Marshall and Janice Harrington-Knopf; his sisters, Emily, Jenny and Laura; his brothers-in-law, Michael and Jake; his nieces and nephews, William, Henry, Oliver, Caroline, Eli and Evie; and his dogs, Nala and Loki. He is also deeply missed by his extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and the countless friends who loved him dearly.
A service to honor and celebrate Max’s life was held May 4 at Congregation B’nai Israel in Rumson. Burial followed at Fairview Cemetery in Middletown. Afterward, all were welcome to gather at the home of Janice and Marshall Knopf. Shiva was held Monday and Tuesday at the Knopfs’ home.
To share memories, stories, photos or reflections about Max, email storiesaboutmax@gmail.com.
Max lived with quiet strength, radiant optimism and a heart wide open to others. His time with us was far too short, but the joy, love, and light he gave will remain forever.
The article originally appeared in the May 8 – 15, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
