Ray C. Madison

Willmar
July 17, 1923 - June 22, 2012

Ray Clifford Madison, 88, of Willmar, died Friday, June 22, 2012 at Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar. His funeral will be 11 am Tuesday, June 26, 2012 at Calvary Lutheran Church. Burial will be in Cloverleaf Cemetery with Military Honors by American Legion Post #167. Visitation will be from 5-7 pm, Sunday, at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar and continue one hour prior to the service at the church.

Ray Clifford Madison was born on July 17, 1923, the son of John and Hannah (Nelson) Madison.  He graduated from Willmar High School in the Class of 1941.  In 1943, he served his country in the United States Army during WWII stationed in Italy and the Philippines.  He received an Honorable Discharge on January 14, 1946.  Ray returned to Willmar.  He was united in marriage to Leona Quale on April 25, 1947 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar.  The couple lived in Chicago and Fargo before returning to Willmar in 1948.  Ray began working for the Kandiyohi County Highway Department retiring after 33 years. 

Ray was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Faith.  He was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar where he was active with the Sunday School, served as an usher, and sang in the choir. 

Ray’s hobby was woodworking, and he would create numerous ornaments, crafts, and birdhouses in his wood shop.  He enjoyed his dog Spot and had a love for all animals.  Ray also enjoyed spending time with friends and family especially with his grandson Stephen and cherished the summers they spent together.

Ray is survived by his wife, Leona of Willmar; daughter, Lori Madison-Smith (and special friend Charles Drewry) of Maple Plain; grandson Stephen (and Melissa) Smith of El Paso, TX; two great-grandsons, Christian and Evan; sister, Nadine (and Vern) Carlson of Willmar and brother, James Madison of Willmar and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters: Pearl Hamann and Vila Von Eschon and brother, Roy Madison.