Maxine Gertrude Harsch (Lorang)

life story

Maxine Gertrude Harsch (Lorang), age 83 of Yuma, Arizona, died on June 28, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Thomas; parents, Selma and Frank Lorang; and sister, Judy. She is survived by her two children, Manya and Michael (Charmaigne); two grandchildren, Britton (Maegen) and Sophia (Jacob); four great-grandchildren, Theodore, Aiden, Norah, and Wesley; sister, Margaret; and extended family.

Maxine was a unique human. She received a degree in mathematics during the 60s and was one of the earliest computer programmers. She was a firm supporter for equal rights for women and supported education and equality for all humans. She started a small business in the 80s and taught hundreds (thousands?) of people what a computer was and how to use one when personal computers first came out.

She was not afraid to ask the awkward question to challenge someone’s belief, yet was one of the first to offer aid to friends or neighbors in need of a boost, offering her experiences, perspective, and humor. She was deeply spiritual, working to improve her understanding of the world and relationships in unconventional ways. She was a survivor overcoming numerous obstacles in her life to carry on with astounding strength, even on the day she died. She went on her terms.

Maxine was proud of her country and loved to travel and explore. She persuaded her introverted husband to hit the road living full-time in an RV for 23 years to explore the country during retirement, and both grew and developed many new friendships. She was a sharp card player and was jokingly reminded that it was nice to let others win on occasion. Maxine’s only regret was that she did not travel more.

A service will not be held, but in lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests that you intentionally offer kindness and positive energy to others, especially those different from you. Take a trip, exposure yourself to new things, new people, and differing beliefs. Read a book. Grow. Support your local public television and radio stations. Ask questions. Be bold. Dare to be unique. Defy convention. Ride that horse on the merry-go-round at 83.

memorial service

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services