Madelynne F. Hyett

HYETT-Madelynne F. Hyett (Fergoda), passed away peacefully on September 23, 2010, one week short of her 89th birthday. Madelynne, who was born in Pasadena, was the fourth oldest of three brother's and two sisters. Some of her early years were spent on the familie's citrus farm, the current site of Victory Park. Her father died young at the beginning of the Great Depression, requiring the children to start working at an early age. Fondly referred to as "the Portagee" family they were known for their love of fun, laughter and generosity. At seventeen she went to work for Halls Jewelers on Colorado Blvd. as a cahier and retired fifty years later as the president of the company. In her mid-twenties, she met and married the love of her life, James (Jimmy) Hyett. They remained devoted partners for 57 years, sharing their love of travel, friends and golf until his death in 2002. In 2004, while on her way to play-golf, she was in an almost fatal car accident. True to her positive spirit she survived but never returned to her home and beloved garden. The last years were spent regenerating her life at G.E.M. an assisted living facility in Pasadena. Madelynne was out-outgoing to the end, making many friends at her new home with her warm smile and take charge attitude. Although she and Jimmy had no children, her nieces and nephews felt as if they were her own, growing very close their aunt in her last few years. She gave much and typical of her, asked for little in return. "Just a phone call is all I need", she would say". Being the last of her Fergoda siblings, she will be greatly missed. She is survived by her sister-in-law Mary Fergoda, nephew and nieces Tom Fergoda and family, Madelynne and Whillie Morales, Carolynn Fergoda, Michele Fergoda, Michael Fergoda and family, Bobby Freeman, Denise and Tiffany Bishop and family. A celebration of life will be held at the Rainbow Chapel, Rose Hills in Whittier, Ca on October 15, 2010 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, donations to the San Gabriel Humane Society are requested.