John Max Hughes

John Max Hughes, 77, passed away surrounded by his children on August 17, 2026. He was born November 27, 1948, in Pocatello, Idaho, to John Ivan Hughes and Doris Maxine Hughes (Snapp). He was the youngest of three children, with two older sisters, Sharon and Vicki. The family lived in Challis for a time before moving to Boise.

John married his high school sweetheart, Terri Jo Thornton, and joined the Army Reserves while earning his degree in respiratory therapy. Together they had three children: John Dean, Charine JoLynn, and Laura Jenny Hughes. They later divorced, and John eventually settled in Walla Walla, Washington, where he met Gloria Hinsdale. They had a son, Matthew Jason Hughes, and were together for 11 years before later divorcing.

John continued working as a respiratory therapist while also starting a small window-cleaning business, Dazzle Bright.

A true free spirit, John loved to travel, explore, and dream of living off the grid. Although his home was in Walla Walla, he often roamed the mountains around Stanley, Idaho City, and McCall. His favorite hideaway was Garden Valley, where he enjoyed relaxing in the natural hot springs tucked away in the mountains.

John enjoyed dancing, motorcycle riding, hiking, exploring the wilderness, and photography. He documented his adventures through pictures and verbal journals. He often spent hours in deep thought reflecting on his own thoughts, actions of himself and others. He also had a mischievous sense of humor and especially enjoyed teasing and razzing his grandchildren.

John is survived by his sister, Vicki McDaid; his children, John (Veronica) Hughes, Charine JoLynn Zahm, Laura Jenny Hughes, and Matthew Jason Hughes; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his oldest sister, Sharon.

John will be cremated according to his wishes. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. A military graveside service will also be held in Boise, with the cemetery and date to be announced. John lived life on his own terms—free-spirited, adventurous, and always ready to explore. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and all who knew him.

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