In Loving Memory of Joseph Maxin: A Tragic Loss in the Aviation and Legal Communities
The loss of Joseph Maxin, a highly respected pilot and former assistant prosecutor, has sent shockwaves through the aviation and legal communities alike. Maxin tragically passed away in a plane crash on Sunday, which also claimed the lives of co-pilot Timothy Blake (55) and passengers Veronica Weller (68), James Weller (67), John Weller (36), and Maria Weller (34).
Maxin, 56, was a beloved figure in both the aviation world and his legal career. His sudden and unexpected death has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and colleagues. The plane crash occurred shortly after takeoff, as the Cessna 441 twin-engine aircraft was en route to Bozeman, Montana. The aircraft crashed in a wooded area of Howland Township, Ohio, just moments after lifting off the runway.
A Legacy in Aviation
Maxin’s passion for aviation was well-known to anyone who worked with him. Anthony Trevena, executive director of the Western Reserve Port Authority, worked closely with Maxin and spoke of him with great admiration. Maxin had recently served as the Director of Compliance at the Port Authority, where he had made significant contributions to the region’s aviation infrastructure.
Trevena recalls fondly a day spent with Maxin when he gave Trevena’s son, Che, a flying lesson in December. The memory of that flight remains vivid for Trevena, who admired how Maxin’s calm demeanor and exceptional skill made the experience unforgettable. He remembers Maxin instructing his son to “don’t touch the brakes” during a landing on a snow-covered runway, showing just how in control he was even in challenging conditions.
“I would fly with Joe Maxin anywhere in the world and never even think twice,” Trevena said. “He was a phenomenal pilot. His passion for flying was contagious.”
Maxin’s deep love for aviation wasn’t limited to his work at the Western Reserve Port Authority. He was also an enthusiastic supporter of Youngstown State University’s (YSU) new aviation program and the flight school he helped create. Just days before the crash, Maxin was celebrating the YSU program’s success—a testament to his dedication to advancing aviation in his community.
A Legacy in the Legal Community
Before his career in aviation, Maxin was a fixture in the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office. As an assistant prosecutor, he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues for his legal skills, dedication, and integrity. Maxin was a longtime employee of the office, where his contributions were valued both professionally and personally.
Lynn Maro, Mahoning County Prosecutor, expressed the profound loss of Maxin, saying, “Joe was not only a skilled attorney but also a beloved friend and colleague, known for his kindness, good nature, and one-of-a-kind humorous personality.”
Judge Anthony D’Apolito, who worked alongside Maxin, reflected on his former colleague’s warmth and his unwavering generosity. D’Apolito recalled how Maxin would often reach out to offer congratulations or just check in to see how he was doing. “He was someone I respected, liked a great deal, and will miss as a person,” said D’Apolito.
Maxin’s legacy in the legal world was not just one of professionalism, but of genuine character and humanity. He was respected not only for his work as a prosecutor but for his personal integrity and compassion. He was, as those who knew him best described him, a good person first—someone who embodied kindness in every interaction.
A Life Taken Too Soon
The loss of Maxin has devastated his family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew him. Trevena captured the sentiment best when he said, “This shows that life is fragile. Tell those you love, your friends—don’t wait.”
Maxin’s death serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing those around us. The aviation community is especially shaken by this loss, having lost one of their finest pilots. His calm, composed, and professional demeanor in the cockpit, coupled with his unwavering commitment to aviation and safety, made him not only an excellent pilot but a role model for many.
In addition to his professional life, Maxin was a beloved family man, and his parents, siblings, and children were his pride and joy. His dedication to his family and community was evident in everything he did. Whether it was guiding a new pilot in the sky or offering counsel in the courtroom, Maxin’s legacy of mentorship and generosity will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Condolences and Reflections
The Western Reserve Port Authority and the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office have both expressed their heartfelt condolences to Maxin’s family, as well as to the families of the other victims of the crash. Trevena spoke poignantly about his last celebration with Maxin just days before the tragic accident.
“Friday night was one of the greatest nights I ever celebrated with somebody, not thinking that I would, two days later, be one of the first people on the scene where he passed,” Trevena said.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the cause of the crash, and the community continues to await answers. In the meantime, Trevena reminds us of the safety of flying, offering reassurance that the skies are often far safer than the roads many travel each day.
“Flying is a safe means of transportation. With the texters and drivers and all the distractions on the road, you are less safe in a car than you are in the skies,” Trevena noted.
A Lasting Impact
Joseph Maxin leaves behind an immense legacy—one built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and an unrelenting passion for aviation. His life may have been tragically cut short, but his impact on his community, his family, and his colleagues will be felt for years to come.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Joseph Maxin’s family, his friends, colleagues, and all who were touched by his kindness and dedication. Rest in peace, Joe. You will be deeply missed by all who knew you, and your memory will live on in the skies you loved so dearly.
