Frank Madsen

Obituary of Frank Soe Madsen

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Frank Søe Madsen (April 21, 1934 - April 12, 2023) after a brief hospitalization. He passed peacefully after a good supper. He is predeceased by his faithful and loving wife Colleen Madsen on December 1st 2017, literally, the girl next-door, who put up with his antics and long hours at the shop. He is survived by his son, Kent, who cooked him many beautiful Danish inspired meals and was able to take him to his family-reunion. And by his daughter, Marnie, who cared for him, coordinated his life, health and at home care until his last days. He also leaves behind his ex-son-in law Marco and three beloved grandchildren Lili, Sofia, and Lorenzo who adored their funny and charismatic grandfather. He was the last of his siblings (Niels, Praben, Per, Eric & Edna) to pass and leaves behind many nieces and nephews across Canada, Denmark, Sweden and Australia. It was a highlight for him in later years to visit with them.  And, since he was, mostly, good with his computer and telephone he was able to keep in touch with those far away. He will be especially missed by Tom and Diane, dear family on Colleen’s side, who were lifelong friends. And also Carol and David Thompson, and all of their offspring namely Duane, who made sure to drop in when he was in town. 

He was a big man, big on life and LOVED people.  His endless curiosity and sense of adventure netted many stories and he loved to hear them as well. We joked he had more than 9 lives ….several of those were vehicular in nature. He could drive, and crash anything!

Frank came to Saskatoon from Denmark in July 1957, with his best buddy Ken. Frank was a skilled tradesmen with a dream and energy to spare. He built a thriving business FRANK’S WELDING & MACHINE LTD. from scratch. He was known across the prairies for his precise welding and machine work. His middle name could've been STEEL! He cultivated great friendships in the industry, shared his knowledge widely and …..could not resist a good auction sale.  He finally retired in his 80s though he still had a steady hand for welding. He then became a fixture at the local coffee shops where he attracted friends like a magnet… the perfect place to share more stories, and offer his opinion.

He was also a proud Dane and original member of the Scandinavian Club. He enjoyed the trappings of success, and many many years at his beloved cabin at Lac la Peche, where he made lifelong friends in Kevin and Donna. He was one of the first owners and attracted many others to this beautiful spot where he was always up to help or visit over a cold beer. The official grandpa of the cabin families. Though he was a workaholic he was able to travel widely for business with Colleen and family and was always ready to go again.  They had many adventures with their grandchildren. Frank was always there to lend a helping hand, no matter who you were, whether it was with a spare tire, school donation or emergency loan.  He was tough, but he was fair.  He dabbled in real estate, buying and selling equipment, elk and buffalo, farming, and even had a small motor oil business. Frank was a busy guy!!

We would like to thank his dedicated and loving care givers: Helen, a dear friend of 33yrs and live-in caregiver the last four. She shopped, cooked, cleaned and cared selflessly for his every need and made sure he didn’t get into too much trouble.  How he loved her wonton soup!  And Maria who provided extra health and home care and added a calming presence in his final years.  These beautiful angels buzzed around him daily keeping him well fed and well groomed, while Pippin the bird sang along. Outside Marcel made sure the property was always shipshape and was there when some extra muscle was needed.  Frank had several chronic illnesses, but because of his angels he could stay at home, entertain visitors and steer clear of the pandemic. He also gathered quite a few “goodies” in the backyard to keep him busy. He was a very lucky man!

We would also like to offer heartfelt thanks to his nearest and dearest friends and supporters, mainly his steadfast sidekick Ronald and friends Glenn, Ken and Edie, John, Mel, Jim, Johnny, Hank… too many come to mind. Some have passed, some were frequently bedside while he was in hospital.

We will sadly miss his bad jokes and the twinkle in his bright blue eyes. A proud Viking till the end, he was asking how to contact mom, so he was ready to go.

Frank will be cremated at Saskatoon Funeral Home -where he installed the iconic fountain.  A private graveside memorial is planned for some time in June followed by a larger celebration of life. Details pending. 
 
In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan or Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation. 
 

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