The Charleston, West Virginia, community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Max Arco Mastromichalis, a vibrant 16-year-old whose life ended far too soon.
Max, a beloved son, brother, grandson, friend, and teammate, was found in the Kanawha River, with authorities believing he took his own life.
The news of Max Arco Mastromichalis’ death has left his family, friends, and the entire George Washington High School community in deep mourning, suffering with the weight of this unimaginable tragedy.
Sarah Williams, a community member, expressed the shared sadness in her touching words.
“Mental health is no joke. He was just a baby, who had so much ahead, and the poor guy ended his life. I feel for his family and friends.”
Via Facebook
Her words show the feelings of many who are struggling to process the loss of such a young, promising soul.
Born on October 10, 2009, in St. Louis, Missouri, to his devoted parents, Andrea Arco-Mastromichalis and Michael Mastromichalis, Max grew up with a gentle spirit and a heart full of kindness.
Before moving to Charleston, West Virginia, Max spent much of his childhood in Ballwin, Missouri, where he forged lifelong friendships.
Even after relocating, he worked tirelessly to maintain those connections through messages, visits, and shared moments of laughter, a testament to his loyalty and care for those he loved.
At George Washington High School, where Max was a sophomore, he was a proud member of the Patriots lacrosse team.
His discipline, sportsmanship, and quiet determination earned him admiration from coaches and teammates alike.
As a freshman, he lettered in lacrosse, a remarkable achievement that highlighted his dedication.
Max also served as a Freshman Student Council Member and had aspirations of joining the Honor Society and Beta Club, reflecting his commitment to academic and personal growth.
Beyond the lacrosse field, Max was passionate about weightlifting, pouring countless hours into self-improvement with the same focus he brought to every aspect of his life.
He loved the beach, skiing, savoring a medium-rare steak or burger, and sharing a good laugh with friends and family.
His dreams were as big as his heart; he hoped to follow in his father’s footsteps in healthcare, driven by a deep compassion and a desire to help others.
At home, Max was a loving big brother to his younger sibling, Mason.
The two were inseparable, spending hours playing video games, laughing, and competing in the way only siblings can.
Max’s patience, humor, and warmth made him not just a brother but a role model and best friend to Mason.
Their bond was a cornerstone of Max’s life, and his family cherishes the memories of their time together.
Max’s kindness extended to everyone around him. He had a rare ability to make others feel seen and valued, whether through a kind word, a listening ear, or a helping hand.
His quick wit and steady presence brought calm and joy to those fortunate enough to know him.
As one friend described him, Max had “a good soul and a gentle heart,” qualities that left an indelible mark on his community.
George Washington HS issued a heartfelt statement, expressing the community’s profound sense of loss.
George Washington High School shared a heartfelt statement, showing the depth of the community’s loss:
“Our GW family is heartbroken by the loss of Max. We are keeping his family, friends, and all who loved him close in our hearts and prayers. Together, we stand with the entire Patriot community during this difficult time.”
Via Instagram
The school’s words capture the collective sorrow and solidarity as they honor Max’s memory.
Max is survived by his parents, Andrea Arco-Mastromichalis and Michael Mastromichalis, his brother Mason, and his loving grandparents, Chris and Sam Arco and Harriet and Gary Mastromichalis, along with an extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who adored him. His family is devastated, longing for “one last Maxie hug and laugh,” a sentiment that resonates with everyone who knew him.
Max Arco Mastromichalis’ death emphasizes the importance of mental health, as noted by Sarah Williams: “Mental health is no joke.”
His loss serves as a reminder to support each other and seek help.
Resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) are available, urging us to prioritize mental health awareness and ensure no one feels alone.
A visitation and service to celebrate Max’s life will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Snodgrass Funeral Home, located at 4122 MacCorkle Avenue, SW, South Charleston, WV, 25309.
The visitation will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., with the service beginning at 12:00 noon. Interment will follow across the street at Sunset Memorial Park, 4301 MacCorkle Avenue SW.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to The Max Arco Mastromichalis Foundation, a newly established organization that will provide annual scholarships to graduating George Washington High School seniors.
These scholarships will honor students who embody the qualities Max exemplified: kindness, compassion, determination, and discipline.
The foundation ensures that Max’s legacy of love and selflessness will continue to inspire future generations.
Max Arco Mastromichalis’ brief life left a lasting impact through his kindness and laughter.
As loved ones mourn, they will honor him by showing compassion. His story urges us to cherish loved ones, check on each other, and cherish every moment.
His family, friends, and community will forever hold him in their hearts, missing him deeply but grateful for his love shared.
Max’s story is a reminder to hold loved ones close, to check in on one another, and to cherish every moment. His family, friends, and community will forever hold him in their hearts, missing him beyond words but forever grateful for the love he shared.
