Max Eugene Zarling, a neurosurgeon who built his career in St. Paul and later served on the board of the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, died peacefully at his home in Edina on Friday, October 23, 2026. He was 94. His family described him as a cherished father, husband and friend who will be greatly missed.
Zarling was born on November 2, 1931, in Mason City, Iowa, to Florence (Wood) Zarling and Max Zarling. The family moved to Minneapolis when he was seven. He did well in the neighborhood elementary school, which began what his family calls a lifetime love of learning. He graduated with honors from West High in 1949, then attended the University of Minnesota and its Medical School, where he received his MD degree in neurosurgery in 1961.
He opened a solo practice in St. Paul and provided his expertise at several hospitals, including some in outlying areas. In the 1970s he joined Neurosurgery Associates Ltd., where he was known as a gifted surgeon. Patients, colleagues and staff respected, admired and liked him. He served as Chief of Staff at United Hospital and received the United Hospital Foundation Service to Humanity Award.
In retirement, Zarling first devoted himself to caring for his wife, Suzanne, after she suffered a tragic health incident. He also made time for hobbies and for nurturing relationships with family and friends, especially his grandchildren. He volunteered at the Listening House, a daytime shelter that offers a "living room" style space where guests socialize, enjoy coffee, listen to one another and rest. Classical music was always important to him, and he became an active member of the SPCO Board of Directors, where he enjoyed the company of talented musicians and fellow music lovers.
He and his wife Debbie shared 15 years of love and adventure. Their travels ranged from dinners at a favorite restaurant in Pepin, Wisconsin, to a trip exploring Turkey with close friends. They were often found on the golf course or the tennis court, and both loved reading. As Zarling's sight diminished, Debbie read to him tirelessly so he could stay involved in two book clubs he cherished.
His family said he was always the smartest person in the room but remained modest about his many accomplishments and wealth of knowledge. They called him an inspiration to many and a wonderful, treasured man.
Zarling was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, V. Richard (Dick) Zarling; Carol Quist Zarling, the mother of his children; his beloved wife Suzanne Kohn Zarling; and an infant son, David. He is survived by his wife Debbie; daughter Genie (Joe Michl); son Phil (Beth Anderson); and daughter Mary (Michael Dunn). Also surviving are his grandchildren Emma Michl Jannotta (Drew), Marie Michl, Jillian Dunn, Hazel Dunn and Leo Dunn, as well as Debbie's sons, Christopher and Peter Brodd (Ali).
A memorial service will be held Monday, November 2, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 4439 W. 50th Street, Edina. A reception will follow in the church's Creekside Room. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the SPCO or to an organization of the giver's choice.
