Michael W. Maxwell, 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 23, 2026, at home surrounded by his loved ones.
Michael was born on February 18, 1948, in Panama to Archie and Allene (Backus) Maxwell. He graduated from LaVille High School with the class of 1966. He proudly served his country in the Indiana National Guard as 11 Charlie Mortarman. Michael married Gloria Ringer on December 30, 1967.
Michael, commonly referred to as his handle name “Jabber Jaws,” worked for Pi Rod Towers for 33 years as a truck driver. He thoroughly enjoyed his time working for and with Myron Noble. After all his years traveling in a semi, he continued his love of the road, riding his motorcycle to California, Montana, and many other places. With his knowledge of traveling, he was a human GPS and could give directions to anyone.
He loved Notre Dame football and the women’s basketball games, and of course, his beloved Chicago Bears. You could also find him on the golf course in his knickers and argyle socks, fishing, playing poker with his brothers who served in the National Guard, as well as his friends for 45 years. Michael led the men’s group at Walnut Church and cooked numerous meals for the women of the church.
He is survived by his wife Gloria of Plymouth; daughters: Michelle (John) Banasiak of Crown Point; Shannon Maxwell of California; grandchildren: Allison (Paul) Haynes and Jack Banasiak; great-grandchild Elowen Haynes; brothers: Thomas (Julie) Maxwell of Arizona and Monty Maxwell of Greenwood, IN.
Michael is preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Patrick Maxwell.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 11-1 pm at the Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth. Funeral services will immediately follow with Pastor David Williams officiating. Military honors will be conducted by the U.S. Army Honor Guard as well as the American Legion Post #27.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Walnut Church, 5975 19th Road, Argos, IN 46501, Gentiva Hospice, 1476 West 18th Street, Rochester, IN 46975 or to the Neighborhood Center, P.O. Box 353, Plymouth, IN 46563.
Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences can be left for the family at www.johnson-danielson.com
