Henrietta Madson

Henrietta Madson, 94, passed away Sunday, August 17, 2025, at her memory care residence in Byron, Minnesota.

She was born in Crystal Lake, Iowa, Feb. 1, 1931, and grew up on farms in northern Iowa and southern Minnesota. If asked to identify a hometown, she would likely say Hollandale, Minnesota, where her parents, Louie and Gertie Klein, settled. It was also where she and her husband, Thomas Duane ("Dude") Madson, were married at the Dutch Reformed Church on September 7, 1956.

Hank and Dude raised their family of three children while also owning various businesses. Hank's primary roles were as a mother and homemaker, and she was exceptional at both. She was known for her hospitality, empathy and kindness. Hank never met a stranger; she made friends wherever she went and was gracious to all. Over the years, she hosted countless parties, overnight guests and various celebrations. No Christmas was complete without Hank's famous wild rice soup, Dutch almond bars and homemade candy.

Hank and Dude resided in Rochester, Minnesota, for most of their married life, eventually splitting their time between Rochester, Lake City, Minnesota and southern Florida. Wherever she was, Hank cherished time with family and was a very special Nana to her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Hank was also known for her love of interior design, fashion, music, animals and making conversation with everyone and anyone. To know Hank was to love her, as her family, friends, neighbors and caregivers will attest.

Survivors include daughter Dawn Bernatz (Mike) of Lake Mills, Wisconsin; son Kelly Madson (Kristi) of Woodbury, Minnesota; daughter Tammy Holtorf (Dave) of Cannon Falls, Minnesota; seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dude; sister Johanna ( "Jo"), brothers Peter (Pete) and Elso (Bud), and her parents.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Rochester Elder Care Network, which provides support for seniors including volunteer visitors.

A memorial service for Henrietta will be held on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home (5421 Royal Place NW). A visitation will be an hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

To share a special memory or condolence, please visit ranfranzandvinefh.com.