Richard Madden

Richard J. (Rick) Madden, 67, Lt. Col. USAF, retired, died peacefully on August 8, 2014. He was born October 1, 1946 to Gretchen and Dick Madden in Racine, Wisconsin. After graduating from Catholic Memorial High School in Waukesha, Wisconsin in 1964, he received a bachelor's degree in 1968 from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, majoring in Political Science, and a master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Oklahoma in 1977.

Rick spent 22 years as a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force, completing one tour in Vietnam and serving in or commanding nine Communications Squadrons throughout the US and Europe.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1990, Rick practiced and taught Real Estate. He owned his own property management firm and Real Estate school prior to signing on at the State of Colorado Division of Real Estate as an education specialist, where he eventually became the Education Director of the Real Estate Commission. Rick retired from the State in 2005, and spent the next several years traveling the world and seeking new adventures.

Rick's hobbies included golf, racquetball, hiking, skiing, cycling, reading, and travel. Paris and Berlin were two of his favorite cities, but he loved living in Colorado. He climbed more than 20 of the state's "14-ers" and, on beautiful days, would joke about spending "another ho-hum day in paradise."

A devout Catholic, Rick served his church in ways big and small; his deep, resonant voice lent gravitas to the scripture readings for congregations the world over. Whether he was mentoring colleagues, offering advice to his children, or serving meals to the homeless, Rick always sought to help others. To Rick, every day was a joyful day and he was generous with his praise and thanks to everyone around him.

He is survived by his wife Margaret DeLany, sons Geoff (Lisa) and Greg (Michelle), daughters Tiffany Lundquist (John) and Veronica Gheller, sister Debbie Moran, brothers Steve (Barbara) and Kelly (Sandra) and 8 beloved grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, Rick's wish is that you consider a contribution to Denver Hospice, Caring Bridge or a charity of your choice.

Rick will be interred in a private ceremony at Fort Logan National Cemetery with military honors at noon on September 12.

A Celebration of Rick's life and Memorial Service will be held on Saturday September 13 at 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart Chapel in St. Joseph Hospital, 1835 Franklin St. Denver. The service will be followed by a reception in the St. Joseph Hospital Russell Pavilion.