Saturday, October 8, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.
Madge, W. Paul
With regret, we announce the passing of our father, father-in-law, grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend,W. PAUL MADGEof Milk River, Alberta on September 21, 2016 at the age of 90 years. Paul was born June 17, 1926 to Edna Coffin Madge and W. Martin Madge. The fourth of five children, Paul was centered in his home town and is well remembered as "Paul Madge from Milk River." He lived a full life, taking over Madge Equipment from his father as a young man, becoming a pilot at age 26, town Mayor the following year and a dedicated businessman with a passion for his local area. Paul was most excited when interacting with the world around him. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, a dedicated collector, a social butterfly and insistent dancer, lover of the outdoors and committed friend.
With regret, we announce the passing of our father, father-in-law, grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend, W. PAUL MADGE of Milk River, Alberta on September 21, 2016 at the age of 90 years. Paul was born June 17, 1926 to Edna Coffin Madge and W. Martin Madge. The fourth of five children, Paul was centered in his home town and is well remembered as "Paul Madge from Milk River." He lived a full life, taking over Madge Equipment from his father as a young man, becoming a pilot at age 26, town Mayor the following year and a dedicated businessman with a passion for his local area. Paul was most excited when interacting with the world around him. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, a dedicated collector, a social butterfly and insistent dancer, lover of the outdoors and committed friend.
In 1956, Paul married Nola Matkin of Magrath and they welcomed three children in to the family fold, Martin 1958, Bruce 1960 and JoEllen 1961. As a young family, they became Charter members of the Alberta chapter of Flying Farmers. This brought many adventures through the years, as well as life-long friendships all around North America which lasted a lifetime.
Selling his business in 1975, Paul redirected his energy into real estate and enjoyed managing that through the rest of his life. After retirement, he served a decade on the ADC Board for the Alberta Government. In his down time, Paul loved spending time at the family cabin in Waterton, hiking and berry picking with his grandchildren and other family, rowing across a lake or visiting with his sister across town. This was reminiscent of his early days spent at the original Madge cabin with all manner of family and friends coming and going. He always loved a good crowd!
Paul was predeceased by his parents; William Martin Madge and Edna Coffin Madge, siblings; Helen (Henry) Salisbury, Frank (Verna) Madge, Beth (Bob) Hummel, Grace (George) Snow, nephew Mark Hummel, great-nephew Michael Brown and other beloved family and friends.
Paul is survived by his children Martin (Michelle) Madge, Bruce Madge, JoEllen (Geoffrey) Cushing and grandchildren Victoria, Kennedy and Catherine Madge, Derek, Kirk (Molly), Corie Jo and Janna Lee Cushing. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews whom he held very close and dear to his heart.
The family wishes to invite anyone who would like to join them at the graveside service being held at the MILK RIVER CEMETERY on Saturday, October 8, 2016 at 11:00 A.M., followed by a noon meal at the Milk River Civic Centre, where we can all share stories and memories of the Paul Madge we remember.
To send a condolence, please visit www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
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I met Paul when I joined Alberta Flying Farmers in 1971. He welcomed me and became a good friend. I miss him. He knew everyone. I was ferrying a brand new airplane from Wichita Kansas to Red Deer. I encountered bad weather just north of Milk River and landed on Paul's strip. When the RCMP showed up Paul knew the officer and introduced us. He drove me to customs at the border and introduced me to the officers there. They asked "anything to declare" I said "Just an airplane, but it is at Paul's strip" Paul helped me import an airplane into Canada without an inspection. I have told that story about Paul many times. Sympathy to the Madge family. Rod Andrews, Saskatoon SK
Sending our love and deepest sympathies. It is with heavy hearts we say goodbye to this kind soul. He was always happy to great and we will miss his happy smile. May fond memories stay in your hearts as he will be forever missed! Pat Russell and Family
Memory of Paul Madge, In memory of a man who made a difference, even to those who did not know him well. His wife will be glad to again have him near.
My sincere sympathy to know of Paul's passing. Bob and I always enjoyed our visits with Paul. He definitely was a people person. May you all find peace and comfort. I am sorry that I cannot attend tomorrow due to another funeral. Sincerely, Pat Hamilton
I never got to meet Mr. Paul, but being a member of the flying Farmers and the shared love of flying brings sadness for your loss. My deepest condolences go out to all who loved him. God bless you all at this very sad time.
On behalf of my sister, Gloria Hooke (Edmonton) and myself (John Hooke - Toronto) I would like to pass along our condolences to all of Paul's children and family members. My mother Ann (Bianchi) Hooke knew Paul for many years as she grew up on the Thomas Bianchi family farm in Knappen and then she worked in Milk River after completing college. Mom always spoke very fondly of Paul and I am sure was one of the Bianchi family members who were at the gates to heaven to greet Paul after his passing. My memories of Paul was when he flew up mom's brothers Nick, Vic and Domenic to attend my Mom and Dads' 25th Wedding Anniversary in Edmonton..... many years ago. Also on a couple occasions when visiting Milk River Paul took us up for sightseeing flight over the Bianchi farm. God Bless Paul Madge! John Hooke and Gloria Hooke
It is with great sadness that I hear of your father's passing. I've known him since I was a young girl.He was a dear soul to everyone he knew.Very active in the town, always fun to talk to. He was also a friend to everyone. Remember all the good memories as there are many. My deepest sympathy to all the family. Sincerely Jolaine Wagg(nee Juhasz)
Marty, Bruce, JoEllen & families, I was surprised and saddened to hear of your Dad's passing last week. After a lifetime of knowing and interacting with Paul, we shared a supper table at the MR LTC with Hummel's and got to know him in a whole new way. I will be unable to attend your gathering of remembrance, but will be thinking of you all. May your memories warm your hearts and provide you with loving comfort. Sheree soloacres@gmail.com