OBITUARY: Ezra Maddan; Goldendale, Klickitat co., Washington surname: Madden, Mitchell, Bruce, Bedwell, Hundt, Roberts, Folkers submitted by Earline Wasser *********************************************************************** Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/wa/wafiles.htm *********************************************************************** USGenWeb Archives - Obituary Project August 8, 2003 www.thedalleschronicle.com Copied with permission from The Dalles Chronicle.com Ezra Maddan Ezra Maddan, 91, a resident of Goldendale, died Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2003 at a local care facility. He was born Jan. 24, 1912 in Holland, Ken., to Henry and Carter Madde (Mitchell) Maddan. He entered the work force at an early age, and in his lifetime lived and worked in most of the 50 states. He worked as a gandy dancer on the railroad and was known as "Cowboy" because of his western boots and attire. He acquired the trade of welding and later worked in the Naval shipyard in Evansville, Ind. constructing and repairing warships during World War II. Following the war, he moved to Peoria, Ill., and worked for Caterpillar Tractor Co. for 30 years before retiring, and he spent some time farming. He had lived in Goldendale several times over the years, returning for the last time five years ago. Survivors include his children: Carolyn Madden-Bruce, Goldendale; Margie Bedwell, Yates City, Ill.; Brenda Hundt, Reed Springs, Mo.; Shirley Roberts, Creve Coeur, Ill.; and Dave "Hank" Maddan, Perry Hills, Texas. Also surviving is a younger half-brother, Willie Dean Maddan, 15 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two children, Billie Ray and JoAnn, as well as another half-brother, Albert Lee Maddan and his father and step-mother Cora Folkers. In accordance with his wishes no public services will be held. The family will observe private ceremonies of remembrance in conjunction with the disposition of his ashes. Arrangements were by Columbia Cremation & Burial.