Donald M. Madson, 85

Sept. 29 1926 - Oct. 3 2011

Post Falls

Our beloved Dad passed away from complications of pneumonia/congestive heart failure at Kootenai Medical Center. He just had his 85th birthday.

Preceded in death by Nellie (Neirstheimer) Madson and Charles Madson, and younger brother Charles L. Madson. Wife Pearl passed away in 1990. Don spent his childhood in Coeur d'Alene, where he developed a deep appreciation for all of the outdoors, especially the mountains.

In 1959, Don married Pearl M. Johnson; they raised their two daughters Donna and Pam in Kennewick, Wash. Don was a hard working man, who did not back down from a challenge! After retirement in 1981, Don and Pearl, Donna moved from Kennewick back to Coeur d'Alene. Don loved hunting, fishing and golfing in his later years with his "little buddy" David Bateman, bowling and dancing. A man full of Common Sense was he. With a down home wit, always a smile, and a very strong hand shake. Dad was proud to be an American.

In 2005 he moved to Post Falls and joined the Post Falls Senior Center. Don considered all the people at the senior center his family. He loved everyone so much. Eventually dad met a very special lady Kathy Kendall. Dad's happy meter went full tilt.

Don is survived by daughters, Donna R. Smith (Gordon), Pam A. Madson (David B. Bateman) and Kathy Kendall - very special lady.

Celebration of Life memorial will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011, at the Post Falls Senior Center, 1215 E. Third Ave., Post Falls.

Instead of sending flowers, please make donations to the Post Falls Senior Center. Yates Funeral Home, Coeur d'Alene Chapel, is entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Don's online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.