Daniel “Dan” Reed Madden, 77, passed away on May 8, 2024, at his home in Battle Creek, surrounded by his family.
Dan was born on January 18, 1947, to James and Norma (Reed) Madden in Flint, Michigan. After graduating from high school, Dan enlisted in the United States Army. While bravely serving in the Vietnam War, he was awarded a Silver Star and a Purple Heart.
On July 18, 1985, Dan and Elaine Block Friesth were married in Troy, Michigan. They enjoyed 38 years together, eventually moving and retiring in Scottsdale and Peoria, Arizona.
From a young age, Dan was a sports fanatic. He and his brothers were all-star athletes at Fenton High School and he loved and followed sports throughout his entire life. He was an avid golfer and had 11 hole in ones in his lifetime! He never missed watching a Masters Golf Tournament or PGA championship on TV.
If you knew Dan, he probably considered you one of his friends. He never met a stranger and would strike up a conversation with anyone he randomly met, and for that reason, he will be missed by many wonderful friends. His jokes, witty/sarcastic humor and card tricks will also be remembered by many. Although Dan worked in sales for most of his life, his real career began after he retired and began working at golf courses. He worked for Terravita Golf and Country Club in Scottsdale, Arizona and Blackstone Country Club in Peoria, Arizona, making friends on the course and fitting in a few rounds when he could. While still residing in Michigan, Dan was a member of Davidson Country Club.
He is survived by his children: Stephanie (Kent) Kehler of Lexington, Kentucky, Jeff (Francine) Madden of Battle Creek, Michigan, Kelly (John) Makarewicz of Troy, Michigan; ten grandchildren: Alex, Eric, and Courtney Kehler, Jack Madden, Amaryonna (Kenneth) Martinez, Aniyah Virgil, Maddie, J.P., and Taylor Makarewicz; one great-grandchild Kayson Craig; two brothers, Don Madden of Sebring, Florida and Mike (Sharon) Madden of Ocala, Florida; sister Tanya Madden of Davidson, Michigan; brother-in-law, Daryl (Kathie) Block of Coal Valley, Illinois.
He was preceded in death by his grandson Justin Madden, twin brother Denny Madden, brother Kenneth Madden, and his parents.
Inurnment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan on July 5, 2024 at 12:30 p.m.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services of Battle Creek
Memorials are suggested to the Wounded Warriors Project
