Howard R. Madson

Howard Madson was born on March 1, 1934, in Butterfield, Minnesota. He was raised on a farm and spent most of his life rooted in the land and community he loved. After graduating from high school, Howard proudly joined the United States Marine Corps and served his country during the Korean War.

Following his military service, he returned home to Butterfield, where he married his highschool sweetheart, Ellen. Together they built a life centered on family and hard work, raising three children while continuing to farm. When they eventually sold the farm, Howard and Ellen set out of a yearlong adventure of travel before settling in Minneapolis, where Howard worked as head of maintenance on several housing projects.

In time, they returned once more to Butterfield, remaining there until they chose to enjoy warmer weather in Texas. In 2022, their daughter Susan moved them to Kentucky so they could be close to family as Howard and Ellen faced ongoing health challenges.

Throughout his life, Howard was deeply committed to serving others. He sat on numerous committees and boards, was active in his church, and took great pride in being part of the Butterfield Threshing Association. Wherever he went, Howard left a lasting impression through his dedication, kindness, and steady presence.

Howard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ellen; his son, Robert; his parents Harold and Linnea; his brothers Marland and DuWayne; his sister Marjorie; his sister-in-law, Grace and LuAnn; and his brother-in-law, Jim.

He is survived by his son Steve and wife Sam; his daughter Susan and husband Bruce; his brothers, Chuck and wife Polly, and Claire and wife Rae; his grandchildren Lindsay, Eric and wife Kelly, Shaun and wife Amy; and his great-grandchildren, Brayden (Lindsay, Annabelle, Joseph, and Daniel (Eric), with two more great-grandchildren expected this summer.

Howard's memorial service will be Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 1:00 pm at St. Stephan's Lutheran Church 5903 Bardstown Rd Louisville KY 40291.

Howard will be laid to rest beside his wife Ellen, in Butterfield, Minnesota.