Mr. Michael Mike E. Madson

December 21, 1942 – January 10, 2011

Michael E. Madson, age 68, of Grand Junction passed away January 10th at home while under loving care of his family. The long courageous fight with cancer has been concluded. Thank you to all well wishers and visitors during Mike's battle. Mike was born December 21, 1942 to Lewis and Genevieve Madson in Huron, South Dakota. Mike married Sharon Schroeder in 1964 and began their new family adventure which took them to Montana, Minnesota, Wyoming and finally to Grand Junction. Mike graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science in Geo Sciences which influenced his professional path and endeavors in mining and processing precious minerals and gems throughout the west. The family, which now includes Eric, Elizabeth and Amy, sorted through many pounds of dirt and gems along the way. The family which knew the difference between a "leaverite" and a gem, found its way to Grand Junction in 1978. Still under the guidance of dad the mineral guy, the family continued to clean and play with rocks. Further work occurred in the geo sciences until professional retirement in 1996. The next adventure was the establishment of Rocky Mountain Racing Collectables. The man and now grandfather now owned a toy store. Grandchildren Derrick, Kyle, Jamie and Lyndsey found the toy store a great time. Who has a grandfather with a toy store? "I still play with rocks and toys", was the calling card for Mike. Mike continued this passion until his passing. Survivors include his loving wife, Sharon of Grand Junction; Mike's son, Eric (Deanna) Madson of Grand Junction; Mike's daughter, Elizabeth (Alex) Avrett of Grand Junction; Mike's daughter, Amy (Ted Wright) Madson of Boston, MA; four incredible grandchildren, Derrick, Kyle, Jamie and Lyndsey, and Mike's brother, Lewis Jr. (Lee) from Newport News, VA, as well as many surviving rock and motorsport friends he encountered. Please join Mike's family for a celebration of his life at Martin Mortuary, Monday, January 17, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. The Madson family would like you to bring a smile and a memory. Memorial contributions in Mike's honor may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado, 3090B North 12th Street, Grand Junction, CO 81506.