Wolfgang Gander

Wolfgang Maximilian "Max" Gander, age 19, passed away November 18, 2015, at his home in Nashville, due to an accidental drug overdose.He was preceded in death by his grandfather Marion F. Thomas, Jr., of Nashville; and is survived by parents Wolfgang R. and Evalyn T. Gander; sister Sperry Gander, of Birmingham, AL, Rachael Chapman, of Murfressboro, TN; and grandparents Judith B. Thomas of Nashville, Rasso and Hannelore Gander of Green Valley, AZ; aunts and uncles Carola and Lee Talley of Warner Robins, GA, David and Janet Thomas of Brentwood, TN; and cousins David Thomas, Jr., of West Hartford, CT, and Shauna Talley of Valdosta, GA.Max was a graduate of Old Cockrill Academy and was a freshman at Nashville State Community College. His artistic ability won him a national award of honorable mention in the Federal Junior Duck Stamp Design contest at Franklin Road Academy at age 11. His creativity in artwork was extensive, being comprised of several media including pencil, acrylic, clay and metal.He was an athlete whose passion was cycling. He completed his first “metric century" (62 miles) at age 8, and obtained his USA Cycling racing license at age 10, racing for six years. During those years he became nationally ranked, and was a TN Bicycling Racing Association top rider four years in a row.Max loved and cared for animals and nature, frequently cycling and hiking in Nashville area parks. He was a kind-hearted soul, whose spirit is now free.The family will receive visitors from 12:30 to 1:30 on Tuesday, November 24, with a service immediately following at St. George's Episcopal Church on Harding Rd. in Nashville.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Forrest General Healthcare Pine Grove Spiritual Grounds or the Nashville Humane Association.NASHVILLE FUNERAL AND CREMATION 615-256-1605