David Madson

David Dale Madson, 82, of Great Falls, passed away after a brief illness on Thursday, December 31, 2015. Surrounded by his family, God welcomed him home with a gorgeous sunset. This was so fitting since he loved watching the sun set over the hills of Great Falls and Puget Sound when he visited his family in Seattle.David was a hard worker who loved his family more than anything. Born in Ulen, Minnesota to Morris and Anna Madson, he moved to Great Falls with his four siblings and graduated from Great Falls High School in 1953. That same year, he joined the Air Force and moved to France where he fell in love with flying.David graduated from Montana State University where he met the love of his life, Catherine Joyce (Kline) Madson, in 1958. They returned to Great Falls, where they married and built their life together. He began working at the Anaconda Company, and later the Great Falls Iron Works and Talcott Building Company. Dave and Joyce are blessed with two children, Gregory and Christina.The family grew as Gregory (Christi Mathis) and Christina (David Holmes) married and had children of their own. Papa deeply loved his grandchildren, Abigail (Elliot) Howard, Noah and Catherine Holmes, Gunnar, Lars, and Trygve Madson. Proud of everything they accomplished, he was their number one encourager and supporter. His favorite moments were when the whole family was gathered at the cabin, where they would laugh and fellowship together. David loved teaching his grandchildren how to ski and treasured those days on the hill.David continued to cultivate his passion for flying with his membership in the Daedalians. This past summer he proudly watched as his grandson, Gunnar, took his first solo flight. He served on many community committees and boards throughout the years. Of note, were The History Museum and Saint Anns Parish and Pastoral Counsel. He had a deep love and passion for Great Falls and the people who live there.David is preceded in death by his parents, Morris Madson and Anna (Pearson) Madson; and his siblings, Marie (Skinner), Melvin, and Janet Madson.He is survived by his wife; two children; six grandchildren; sister Judy (Mark) Mozer of Helena; and his two constant canine companions, Togo and Tillie Bug.A vigil service will be held Friday, January 15, 2016, at 6:00 p.m. at St. Anns Cathedral. A funeral liturgy will be held Saturday, January 16, 2016, at 12:00 noon at St. Anns Cathedral with Father Oliver Doyle presiding. Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a donation to St. Anns Cathedral or a charity of the donors choice.David was an amazing husband, father, Papa, and friend. His presence will be deeply missed by those who were blessed enough to know him.