Max Cory was born December 18th, 1944, to Lois and Max Cory, Sr. Max and his family spent summers in Lake Okoboji, setting in stone a love for sailing, skiing, boating, and all things Okoboji. He and his siblings spent their summers sailing in the Okoboji Yacht Club races, first with a Y Flyer then a M-16 Scow, both named the ‘P101.” Max was raised in Lincoln, Nebraska, where he graduated from Lincoln Southeast High School. He later earned a Hotel and Restaurant Management degree from University of Denver, which led to a long career in restaurants. Max loved cooking and connecting with people, so the restaurant business was perfect for him. He owned and operated many restaurants over the years, starting when he was serving in the military at Fort Ord, California, through many restaurants in the Lakes Region, until his health forced him to retire a few years ago. The First Edition, one of his many successes, first opened in Sioux Falls in 1974, then expanded to Okoboji, Spencer, and Sioux City. Among his many specialties, some favorites included his chili rellenos, garlic mashed potatoes, green chili, and his remoulade sauce. Max always greeted people personally and with a big smile. He truly enjoyed meeting customers and treated them all like family.
Max shared his enthusiasm for life with many people over the years. He enjoyed spending time with his daughter, Allison, her partner, Zach, and treasured every moment he had with his grandchildren, Riley and Nash. His sister, Julie Swanson, and brother, Bill Cory, meant the world to him. Max died on June 3, 2022, after a long battle with cancer. His daughter, Allison, was there by his side to help him on his way.
His friends from the Lakes Area will miss him greatly.