Racine– David "Dave" Lee Madsen, 52, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep at home on Thursday, November 11, 2010.

A lifetime resident, Dave was born in Racine on June 23, 1958 to Robert A. and Evelyn A. (nee: Paulson) Madsen. He graduated from Washington Park High School in 1976, MATC and also attended Carthage College and GTC.

On June 13, 1981 at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Dave was united in marriage with the love of his life, Susan R. (nee: Klacan) Madsen. A devoted employee of Southway Supply for nearly 30 years, Dave's strong work eithic and quick wit will be missed.  Dave was a faithful member of North Cape Lutheran Church serving on council, as usher and lector.

A sports enthusiast, Dave played softball – with team Uptown Auto Body, golf, downhill skiing and volleyball (winning a match the night he passed away). He also enjoyed gourmet cooking, music, vegetable gardening, hunting, fishing, carpentry, his Harley, and lending a helping hand to someone in need. Even in death, Dave is enhancing the lives of nearly 60 people through the gift of organ and tissue donation. Above all, Dave loved and cherished being in the presence of his entire family and extensive circle of friends.

Surviving are his loving wife of nearly 30 years, Sue; mother, Evelyn A. Madsen; sisters and brothers, Helen (Steve) Ujvarosy, Barb (Wally) Ott, Paul (Vicki) Madsen, Mark (Judy) Madsen, Carol Hillman, Roger (Barb) Madsen, James (Linda) Madsen, Linda (Dan) McCabe and Karin (Gerald) Dinda; mother-in-law, Delores "Dee" Klacan; sisters-in-law, Chris (John) Poorman and Julie (Chuck) Sauvageau; his beloved feline companions, Mona and Lucy; many special aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives, co-workers, teammates and friends – too numerous to mention by name.

Dave was preceded in death by his father, Robert A. Madsen; and father-in-law, Raymond P. Klacan.

In accordance with Dave's wishes, cremation will take place. A Memorial Service celebrating Dave's life will be held in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Monday, November 15, 2010 at 11 am with Rev. Brad Brown officiating. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Sunday from 3-6 pm and on Monday from 10-11 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials to North Cape Lutheran Church Worship & Ministry Fund or H.O.P.E. Safehouse (our local no-kill animal shelter) have been suggested.