Max Bangerter was involved in the sport of gymnastics for more than 60 years. Born in Switzerland on January 23, 1911, Bangerter was a member of the Swiss Gymnastics Federation since 1926, beginning as a member of the Aarburg Gymnastics Club.

Over his many years of involvement in the sport, Bangerter served in many official capacities. From 1956 to 1962, Bangerter was the Secretary of the Swiss Gymnastics Federation. From 1966 until 1988, Max Bangerter was the Secretary General of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG).

For many years, Bangerter operated the entire FIG out of his own home. Always a popular figure in the sport, he held honorary membership in several societies and federations, including the Gymnastics Federation of Switzerland and the British Amateur Gymnastics Association.

In 1982, Bangerter was honored with the coveted Olympic Order from the International Olympic Committee, for his lasting contributions to gymnastics. He was one of only a few gymnastics personalities to ever be honored with this IOC distinction. 

Bangerter passed away on November 11, 1997, at 86 years of age. But with his endearing personality and warm smile, Max Bangerter will forever be remembered as one of the sport’s greatest visionaries and ambassadors.