Madge Tilsley

Madge Tilsley passed away Oct. 26th, 2016 in Monmouth, OR. Madge was born June 21st, 1930 to Frank and Doris Tilsley who had immigrated from England. Madge was the shy younger sister of her three older outgoing sisters.

She graduated from Jefferson High School in 1949 and then attended Vanport College for one year. Madge then began a successful career working at Portland Northwest Natural Gas Co. Her first job was as a typist in the production typist pool. After 42 years, she retired from a senior position as Industrial and Commercial Operating Clerk. She enjoyed being a city girl and working in downtown Portland.

Madge was baptized, confirmed and attended the Parish of St. Mark Anglican Church for most of her life. She was a quiet and generous Christian woman who served for many years on the Altar Guild and in numerous other ways behind the scenes. She was also a member of the Sisterhood of the Holy Nativity and wore the symbolic cross till her death.

Madge played golf for many years and participated in a NW Natural Gas golf team in her early years that took first place in company tournaments. She enjoyed her long scenic road trips throughout many of the state and Canada incorporating her love of photography. She drove the AlCan highway to Alaska on one such trip. One of her life highlights was traveling to England with her niece to trace her parent’s birthplaces and heritage.

Madge was known for her dry wit and sense of humor. She enjoyed being a part of many family celebrations during her life none of which would have been the same without her. She lived her life the way she wanted; stubbornly as an independent single woman. Not too many people can claim to have had an “Aunty Madge” in their family. She was one of a kind! We loved her, have fond memories and we’ll miss her.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her three sisters: Joan Bjornsen, Nancy Parker, and Pat Keller.

She is survived by her nieces and nephews and their families: Michael Parker, Wendy Matthews, Janet Edson, Susan Krog, Larry Keller, Cheryl Meadows, and Charley Keller.

A Requiem Mass will be held in her honor at the Parish of St. Mark, 1025 NW 21st Ave., Portland, OR on Saturday, Nov. 19th and 2:00 PM.