Walter Madsen

Born in Brooklyn, New York, on October 27, 1938, he remained there throughout his childhood. At the age of 17, Walter proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, serving aboard the Navy Destroyer U.S.S. Vogelgesang until 1959. He often credited those years with giving him the opportunity to see the world and broaden his perspective. His service was a point of pride and a cornerstone of his character—marked by discipline, honor, and a deep appreciation for the freedoms he helped protect.

In junior high school, Walt met Frances Zukas, the girl who would become the love of his life. Though their first encounter didn’t spark instant romance, their bond deepened quickly, and on December 6, 1956, they began a lifelong journey together filled with devotion, and unwavering partnership.

Walt and Fran welcomed two sons, John and Matthew, into their lives, and with their growing family, they made the heartfelt decision to leave Brooklyn behind. They settled in Suffern, New York, where they built a warm and welcoming home that became the backdrop of 59 beautiful years.

Walt had many fond memories of South Van Dyke Avenue, where neighbors became lifelong friends and the laughter of children echoed through the years as they played and grew up together. Walt enjoyed every backyard barbecue, and especially the family dinners and celebrations held on the deck—moments filled with warmth, stories, and shared memories. In quieter times, Walt found peace in the simple pleasures: a good book, the rustle of leaves, and the gentle presence of wildlife passing through the yard—even if they had a particular fondness for Fran’s plants.

From humble beginnings as a forklift mechanic at Dierckx, Walt’s early days were marked by a tireless work ethic. Over time, his leadership qualities emerged naturally, and he rose to manage the service repair shop—earning the trust of colleagues and clients alike.

Never one to settle, Walt transitioned into forklift sales and materials handling, where his technical expertise met his gift for connection. His ability to understand both machines and people propelled him into management and, eventually, international sales.

A wonderful chapter in Walt’s life began when he became a grandfather, or Poppy, as he was called, the day he’d met a granddaughter. That dream was fulfilled several times over, as Walt was blessed with four granddaughters and one grandson.

Though Walt had been a firm and principled father, his grandchildren unlocked a softer side of him that few had seen before. He was always ready with a warm hug, a mischievous grin, and a generous hand when it came to sweets. “They can’t be broken in a day,” he’d say, as he handed out an extra scoop of ice cream or snuck another cookie onto their plate.

A pivotal time in Walt’s life was converting to Catholicism, but he didn’t simply adopt a new faith—he immersed himself in it with conviction, humility, and joy. “I don’t want to be a nominal Catholic,” he often said, and he lived that promise every day. His devotion found a home at the Church of the Presentation, where he became a beloved presence across many ministries. Whether serving as a Eucharistic minister, attending the 6am Men's Group with quiet dedication, or offering comfort through Pastoral Care, Walt gave of himself freely and without fanfare. He especially cherished bringing communion to the sick and elderly, believing deeply in the healing power of presence and sacrament. His faith was not performative, it was personal, active, and deeply rooted in service.

Walt is survived by his wife of 68 years, Frances; his sons, John (Jennifer Fox) and Matthew (Lynn); his five grandchildren—Cassandra, Emma, Jordan Fox, Natalie, and Corey; also, by his special nieces Kathy Quinn, Kelly Flynn and Kristen Wauson.

He was predeceased by his mother Ingrid Madsen (nee Olsgard) and his brother, Stanley Madsen.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 5, from 5:00 to 9:00 PM at Wanamaker and Carlough Funeral Home, 177 NY-59 Suffern, New York.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 6, at 11:15 AM at Church of the Presentation, 271 West Saddle River Road, Upper Saddle River, NJ

A reception will be held afterward in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Catholic Relief Services www.crs.org