William Henry Madden

Bill Madden passed away at home on February 25, 2025, three months short of his 100th birthday. 

Up until his final days, Bill remained engaged in playing online bridge, completing his daily puzzles, enjoying his “5 o’clock cocktail” and interacting with family, friends and caregivers. Throughout Bill’s life, faith was central, and he continued to attend mass virtually. 

Born in Saint Paul, Bill attended Saint Luke’s grade school and graduated from Cretin High School (’43).  Voted Captain, he led the basketball team to the 1943 state championship and was awarded the American Legion Award for outstanding student/athlete. Bill attributes much of his character, confidence building, and professional success to his parents and to his Cretin experience.

Bill served as an Officer in the Navy in WWII and after completing his business degree at the U of MN, he joined 3M where he enjoyed a successful and fulfilling 42-year career. Bill met Beverly, “a resourceful, independent, ultimate do-it-yourself gal” from North Minneapolis whom he married in 1951.  Bev and Bill celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on the shores of Lake Superior. Seven months later Bev died unexpectedly, which shook Bill’s world. In later decades, Bill cultivated a special companionship with Noralee Mogol and maintained many meaningful longtime friendships and close family relationships.

 Bill was an avid golfer who shot three holes in one and enjoyed many rounds at Town and Country Club when in St. Paul and PGA West when he was at his winter home in Indian Wells, CA. When he was no longer able to play golf, he continued to enjoy playing cards and dining with his "widower" group and eventually took up bridge. He knew the importance of the written word and for years he wrote monthly letters to his children.  He also wrote letters to many who sent him Christmas cards, birthday greetings or who showed him some act of kindness. (He wrote LOTS of letters).   Known as a true gentleman and a classy guy, he was forever grateful for the “cards he was dealt” and was deeply loved by all: “We will miss you Big Bill!”

Bill is survived by five children:  Michael (Marcia), Deb (Don Wendling), Sue (Kirk Vadnais), Bill Jr. (Anabel De Juan-Gomez), Pat (Bob Diedrich); three grandchildren: Jenna (Lahens St. Fleur), Lindsey (Corey Statler) and Delaine (Michael Ackerman); two great grandchildren Tony and Andre St. Fleur, sister-in-law Lorrie Petrich, and many nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his parents Frank and Hildegarde, wife Beverly, brother Frank, and sister Maryanna.

Special thank you to caregivers Nancy, Gus, Molly, Janee and Roy and to HealthPartner’s Hospice Nurse Kim. 

A funeral Mass will be held at 10AM on Friday, March 14, at The Church of The Assumption, located at 51 W. 7th St, Saint Paul.  Visitation at the church starts at 9AM.  A luncheon at the church will immediately follow the funeral.  In place of flowers, memorial contributions to Cretin Derham Hall, Church of The Assumption, or a charity of the donor's choice are preferred.  The Mass will be livestreamed at https://watchitlivestream.com/w-madden