Jonelle Madsen

Jonelle Grace Madsen

Resident of Atherton

Passed away peacefully on October 8, 2010. Jonelle was born in Seattle, Washington in 1923 and moved to Los Angeles shortly thereafter. At the age of 14 while in high school Jonelle met the love of her life, Thor Madsen. Two years later they married and just a few weeks ago they celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. A wonderful party with family members and dear friends was held to honor the loving and devoted couple.

Jonelle lived in San Carlos for 30 years and resided the last 36 years in Atherton. While living in San Carlos she was an active member of the Community Church's 75 Club and Junior Matrons (singing and dancing in many of their Chicken's Ball skits). In Atherton she was a member of Little House (she always looked forward to Monday movie date), The Athertons and an investment group.

Throughout her entire life Jonelle had a sharp mind. On a daily basis she completed the newspaper's crossword puzzle and followed the stock market. Jonelle was an avid bridge player and she played in many ladies and couples bridge groups. She enjoyed the challenges of bridge but most of all she loved the friendships that she developed over the years with her fellow players. She took a lively interest in all women's and men's sports.

Jonelle enjoyed life to the fullest, traveling the world with her husband Thor and often including family and friends. Throughout her life Jonelle and Thor's home was always open for entertaining family and friends. An excellent homemaker, Jonelle enjoyed cooking and baking and was famous for her homemade pies and apricot jam. She was an expert knitter and seamstress. She was a beautiful, unique woman and will be missed by all she knew.

Jonelle is survived by her husband Thor; brother Roy Heavenston; children Barbara Woodward (Chet), John Madsen (Tia Millman), Carolyn Caine; Grandchildren Brett Woodward, Wendy Baker (Bob), Chris Madsen (Mona), Amy Kinder (Jason), Josh Caine, Judy Caine, Joy Caine; Great Grandchildren Brandon Madsen, Taylor Madsen, Brooke Baker. She was preceded in death by her mother Nellie Heavenston and brother Don Heavenston.

Per Jonelle's wishes there will be no memorial service and the family requests that memorial donations be sent to Sequoia Hospital, Foundation Kennett Nursing Scholarship Fund, 170 Alameda de las Pulgas, Redwood City, CA 94062.