Vernon John Madson, Jr. Our best friend, husband, dad, brother and grandpa left us on May 12, 2017. He was surrounded by family, holding our hands and our hearts as he passed. Dad fought a very courageous battle after a massive heart attack and our lives are more enriched by the love he so selflessly shared. Born to Vernon J. and Monica V. Madson, he was the second of three boys; his brother Gary dying shortly after birth. He enjoyed being a big brother to Colin. He spent his early years in Pasco attending St Patrick's Catholic School, the nuns forever shaping his life. He graduated from Eastern Washington University, studying history and psychology, and continuing his education to earn a Master's degree in teaching. Dad's empathy and his calm demeanor guided him in his work as a champion for others. Dad had a short career as a high school teacher, worked for Union Pacific Railroad and eventually became skilled as a sheet metal worker. He was proud to serve as a chief steward and safety rep at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) after working at the N Reactor and other areas at Hanford. He was also proud to serve on the steering committee for the Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) which facilitated a safe work environment for all employees. It was during this time he helped to achieve Star Status for the Lab. He spent his last 10 years as secretary/treasurer at Hanford Atomic Metal Trades Council (HAMTC) where he also served as a union negotiator. He was a fierce protector of workers' rights and believed in the union and the power of banding together for the greater good. He genuinely cared about others and acted to create a better world for all. Dad's retirement years were not long enough. With his beloved best friends (wife Kathi and pup Atticus) in tow, he enjoyed the sunshine, trips to the beach, shopping, and spending time with family. His passion for football and the Seattle Seahawks extends back to 1976 when he and Mom would grab a six pack of beer and watch their summer training camp in Cheney, WA. He never took life for granted. In 2007, he was devastated by the loss of his daughter Kelsie but that didn't deter Dad from living life to its fullest. He loved being a grandpa to Madilyn and Riker! Throughout his life, he persevered through heart problems, a brain tumor, a rare cancer diagnosis and treatments while still waking up at 5:00 every morning - thankful to be alive. He was a voracious reader, often enjoying early mornings of solitude, in nature, with a good book. Dad was a very proud man who lived his life with courage, commitment, honesty, compassion and love. Love always being first and foremost in everything he did. His love for his family guided him in every decision, every word (whether we wanted to hear it or not), and every plan he ever made. He worked tirelessly to provide for us - always ensuring our short term happiness was matched by long term goals of success - seeing a future of even more adventures, more smiles, more of the world to explore. His research of anything and everything made for a side project always in the works. His advice was plentiful. Dad had a beautiful way of seeing both sides of an issue and was compassionate towards all. It is with gratitude that we thank Dad for loving us so much and it is with profound sadness that we say farewell until our next adventure. Dad is survived by his wife of 40 years, Kathi, his son Eric (wife Michelle and grandkids Madilyn and Riker), his daughter Katie (Becca), his brother Colin (Cheryl) and his beloved dog Atticus. He joins parents Vern and Monica, brother Gary, daughter Kelsie, niece Leah, and companions Sinbad, Sam and Boomer. Dad - Thank you for the memories...you are our everything and will forever be in our hearts. Grab Kels and get yourself a soda! Funeral services will be held Friday, May 19, 2017, 10:00 a.m., at Mueller's Tri-Cities Funeral Home, 1401 S. Union Street, Kennewick with burial beside Kelsie at Desert Lawn Memorial Park.