John Madiol

John Madiol was born on September 14, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, to Louis Madiol and Alice Nelis. He was the eighth of nine children and the last of his siblings to pass away. Showing independence from an early age, John moved on his own from Los Angeles at about fourteen, beginning a life marked by adventure, hard work, and curiosity.

In his early years, John worked as a cow puncher, moving between Arizona, New Mexico, and New York. In 1952, he proudly joined the United States Army and served during the Korean War. During his service, he worked as a prisoner-of-war guard and also as a cook—a role he took great pride in.

In the fall of 1955, John went to Arizona State College (now known as Northern Arizona University) earned his GED and later earned his training as an electrician.

While working at the Golden Drumstick restaurant in Flagstaff, John met the love of his life, Dortha Cash. They were married in 1957 in a Southern Baptist church and together raised two daughters, Denise and Diana.

Christmas was one of John’s favorite time of year. Each season, he would take his family on picnics and together they would chop down their own Christmas tree. Hot chocolate and laughter followed, and these simple traditions became some of the most cherished moments of family life. Many family vacations were taken to Colorado at Dortha’s parents’ farm. He also loved taking his family to Disneyland and other special trips, always finding joy in sharing experiences and capturing them through his camera.

In 1968, John and his family moved to Phoenix due to his work. He was an avid photographer, passionate about capturing landscapes, portraits, and the beauty of the world around him. John loved hiking, traveling, and exploring mountains and beaches, often taking his family along for adventures that created lasting memories.

After the passing of his wife, John continued on with quiet strength and independence. He would often tell his children he was “just going,” setting out with a destination to explore and photograph the world he loved so much.

John is survived by his two children, three grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, his parents, and all of his siblings, who now greet him in heaven.

John will be remembered for his love of family, his adventurous spirit, generosity and the gift of photography that allowed him to share his view of the world with those around him.