Obituary of Thomas William Madsen

Bill (Thomas William) Madsen

January 7, 1947 - December 31, 2023

The family is devastated to share that Bill Madsen passed away suddenly at his home in Kingsville, Ontario, on December 31, 2023 - one week before his 77th birthday.  

A fun-loving, cheerful father, he leaves behind three children, Tracy Madsen (Larrin), Mark Madsen (Annette) and Matthew Madsen (Donita). He is predeceased by his wife, Laurie Miller, his parents Wilhelm and Margaret Madsen (Gillespie), and his brothers Reilly Madsen and Michael Madsen.  He also leaves brothers David Madsen and John Madsen. He will be sadly missed by Debbie McCormac (Perry), and the Summers family.

Born in Toronto, the second eldest of five boys, he moved with his father and younger brothers to rural North Augusta after the death of his mother when he was 13 years old.  They lived in an century old log cabin, without electricity, running water, telephones or any modern conveniences, but he built a wonderful home that drew friends of all ages, from all walks of life.  His door was open to all; strangers entered and left as friends. He was the life of the party, and loved to be surrounded by his friends, just telling stories.

He ran a successful auto body shop from home, using his creativity and talent to restore and create beautiful things from nothing.  He also worked for Coates Diamond Drilling, travelling the world to work on mining rigs.  For the last twenty years his main focus was on residential and commercial interior painting around the Windsor/Chatham area, turning customers into friends, well liked for his jovial attitude and professional results. 

He was funny, handsome, and kind. A lover of old cars and trucks, mystery stories, Steve Martin movies, drive-in theatres, and jokes, as well as animals. He was ruled over by his little dog, Rocz, and had just adopted a puppy, Buddy.   

The loss of this charismatic, strong, carefree man is a blow to all who knew him, and his smile will linger on in all of our hearts.  

In keeping with Bill's wishes, cremation has already occurred, and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date, at the family farm in North Augusta.  

Donations in Bill's memory may be made to the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society and/or Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals