Obituary: Thiede, Madeline
Age 91
Madeline was born January 4, 1923 on a farm near Cozad, NE the only child of William and Marie Meyer.
She is survived by her sons Gordon and Marla Finch, Jim and Marilyn Finch and stepsons Gerald Verhaag and Jim Thiede.
Madeline was the proud grandmother of one grandson, eight step-grandchildren, and several step-great-grandchildren.
She attended EWU and Whitworth University where she received her nationally accredited music teacher certification.
Madeline was a gifted organist, pianist, and accordion player.
She played at numerous churches, participated in several bands, and was a talented square dancer.
She loved to teach children the virtues of music and helped develop the concept of musical kindergarten.
During her lifetime she had various other interesting occupations including helping to manage a large bucket line gold dredge near Elk City, ID and running a large cattle ranch near Springview, NE.
Madeline enjoyed traveling and learning world history.
She visited nearly all of the US states and Canadian provinces, several countries in South America and northern Africa, Mexico, most of Europe including Russia, plus Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania.
Madeline’s greatest love was learning about people’s lives and making new friends.
Friendships bridged all generations, during her sons high school and college years her home became a frequent gathering spot known affectionately by many as “Madeline’s Boys Ranch”.
In later life this love was accomplished through card playing, book clubs, and church activities.
During her last eight years she moved to Guardian Angel Assisted Living, Liberty Lake in order to be surrounded by countless friends and gracious staff.
Her angel-like kind heart and warm smile will truly be missed by all the lives she touched throughout the years.
A memorial service will be held at Advent Lutheran Church, 13009 E. Broadway, Spokane Valley, WA 99216, Saturday, April 26 at 2:00 PM.
Donations in lieu of flowers can be gifted to Advent Lutheran Church, Spokane Valley.