Madalyn J. Zidell

Madalyn J. Zidell, 100, lifelong resident of Kalamazoo, passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at Ascension Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo. Madalyn was born June 11, 1924 in Kalamazoo, the daughter of Cecil and Irene (Wilson) Monroe. She was a graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School. During high school, she worked at Woolworth’s, then after graduation went to work at Gibson Guitar. She not only helped manufacture guitars, she also helped manufacture war materials that were used in World War II. In addition to raising her three children, Vaughn, Vicki and Bob, she was a dedicated and hard-working employee of Allen Electric, International Paper, where she worked in the art department for 13 years, Montgomery Ward, where she worked in housewares for 13 years and finally Menard’s where she worked in plumbing for 13 years, retiring at age 85.

Madalyn is survived by her son, Bob (Margie) Zidell of Melvin, MI; four grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and two nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son, Vaughn in 2014 and her daughter, Vicki in 2019, along with one brother and two sisters.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no public services. Memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of choice.