Harald Madsen

Harald Hakon Madsen was born December 17, 1925 to Ernst and Anna (Bollesen) Madsen in Tyler, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed at Danebod Lutheran Church in Tyler. He grew up on the farm south of Tyler, and graduated from Tyler High School. Following his education, he began his life of farming, helping his dad farm. On July 9, 1947 Harald married Margaret Ostergaard at Bethany Lutheran Church in Arco, Minnesota. Their union was blessed with two children and 59 years of life together. The couple farmed for 35 years and made their home at the now century old 'Sunnyside Farm' south of Tyler. In 1985 they moved into Tyler. Following Margaret's death in 2006, Harald moved to Danebod Village. In October of 2011 he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. On March 20 he entered Tyler Healthcare Center where on Tuesday, March 25, 2014 Harald died at the age of 88.

Harald was a lifelong member of Danebod Lutheran Church. He was active in the life of the church, serving on the Folk School Board and the Fall Folk Meeting Committee. He served on the Lincoln County Fair Board for nearly 25 years and was secretary for 10 years. He enjoyed golfing, woodworking, and playing cards. He had a special love for flower gardening, and especially enjoyed time spent with family and friends. Harald took his Danish heritage seriously and kept its traditions alive. In 2007 he brought his family to Denmark so the next generation could connect with that heritage.

Harald is lovingly remembered by his children, Ricke (and Jerry) Bly and Curt (and Darla) Madsen, all of Tyler, Minnesota; five grandchildren, Eric (Erica) Bly, Megan (Luke) Gronewoller, Amanda (Cade) Drake, Natalie Madsen, and Adam Madsen; seven great-grandchildren, Kai, Jens, Juhl, and Svea Drake, and Aiden, Jack, and Graem Bly; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret; his parents; and his sister, Karen McCumsey-Nielsen.

Blessed be his memory.