Ward Ronald Madsen

Ward was born at Chanute AFB in Rantoul, Illinois. Ward graduated from Gloucester High School. He went on to become a Certified Aviation Mechanic and retired from Goodyear with over 30 years of dedicated service as a Master Mechanic.

Ward found his greatest joy in the sky. He flew ultralight aircraft for many years, first with his father, then solo after his father’s passing. He was also a charter member of the Southeastern Virginia Ultralight Flyers Club # 6. When his feet were on the ground, he loved traveling and spending time with family and friends, always with a plate of good food, his family’s love language.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ronald and Jeri Madsen; his beloved fur baby, Lacy; and brother in law, Charles Durand. Remaining to mourn his loss are his sister, Kristie Durand (SmokeyPearl); nephews, Alex Knight (Anissa) and Allen C Madsen, SIL, Connie Wilem; niece, April Vasquez (Louis); grandnieces, Taylor and Morgan Knight; grandnephew, Mateo Vazquez; great aunts, Linda Rings (Bob), Barbara Eddy, Carol Eddy, Rosemary Duval-Arnould (Bertrand); and many cherished family and wonderful friends.

For all who wish to honor Ward’s memory, in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to For the Love of Poodles Rescue at www.floprva.org.

A Celebration of Life picnic will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026 at Three Lakes Park & Nature Center, Shelter #1, from 11am-3pm.