Maxford Leon Dugaw
Maxford Leon Dugaw
Maxford Leon Dugaw, 88, entered into rest January 29, 2025. He was born on the winter solstice in 1936, in the town of Union City, Pennsylvania, a bustling industrial center in the early 20th century. In his younger years, he lived with his parents Leon and Agnes, and two older sisters, on the farm on Java Road surrounded by a large extended family and many acres of virgin forest. When the family moved into Union City, Max was happy to be near shops, movie theaters and the surrounding resorts where speakers and entertainment from around the country performed. Even as a youngster, Max decided that he would travel and see the wider world.
After graduating from Clarion College, Max worked as a reporter for the Meadville Tribune for several years before moving to Philadelphia to work in the publishing business. Max was active in the historical society in Philadelphia and wrote for several journals and small publications. His next position in publishing was in Allentown, Pennsylvania and later he moved to New York City and worked as a writer for Paul Weiss, a well-known innovative law firm in Manhattan.
Retiring from publishing, he returned to school to earn a master’s degree in English at Edinboro State College where he met his wife, the artist Julianna Dugaw. After graduation, Max and Julianna bought a historic farmhouse in Chautauqua County and set about making their way as a creative team. He continued to write poetry but became more drawn to the canvas. Eventually he and Julianna turned the top floor of their home, with its gorgeous natural light, into a large painting studio. Their artwork was well received by galleries and now hangs in many businesses and private homes which allowed them to enjoy life as working studio artists for many years.
When Juliana passed in 2017, Max moved to the small town of Ripley, New York where he was able to enjoy the symphony, opera and visual arts available at the nearby Chautauqua Institute. He continued to be an avid reader, well versed in literature and the arts and a connoisseur of fine food.
He lived his dream of travel and adventure, living for periods of time in Montreal, Paris, Atlantic City, and San Francisco.
Max was preceded in death by his wife Juliana, his brother Gary Dugaw and his sisters Justine Dugaw Maloney and Gladys Dugaw Goal.
He leaves behind two sons, Jay David Dugaw and Farley David Dugaw, both of South Carolina as well as many nieces and nephews who will miss his warmth, wit and lively conversation.
Services will be private.
Arrangements entrusted to Morse Funeral Home Brocton, NY
Online condolences may be made at www.the morsefuneralhome.com.