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Obituaries

Kenneth "Ken" Marvin Madu

March 06, 1947 - November 14, 2025

Text:

Obituary For Kenneth "Ken" Marvin Madu

On November 14, 2025, with his family by his side, Ken Madu—beloved father, brother, uncle, and friend—left us to go be an outlaw in the sky, forever reunited with his little brother and best friend, Don Madu. His spirit lives on in our hearts with love and fond memories.

Ken was born to Olga and John Madu in Wetaskiwin, Alberta, on March 6, 1947. From the very beginning, he was a man of hard work, adventure, and unstoppable determination. Ken spent many years in Woking, Alberta, raising cattle, horses, and starting a variety of businesses—always chasing the next big challenge. His work took him everywhere—from the remote Arctic oil rigs to the rugged oilfields of Australia—embracing every challenge and forging lifelong friendships along the way. These experiences shaped Ken’s resilience and gave him plenty of stories that he loved to share, often with humor and a good laugh. He lived life on his own terms, and his spirit of adventure, humor, and passion will forever inspire those who knew him.

Ken was a natural-born entrepreneur, owning and running several businesses over the years. His last venture, Nighthawk Vacuum Services, was especially meaningful to him. He took pride in delivering quality service and valued the connections he made with his customers and colleagues, always going the extra mile with a genuine smile and a handshake.

For nearly 20 years, Ken split his time between the Peace Country of Alberta and the beautiful, sunny shores of Costa Rica. He owned property there and spent six months each year soaking up the warmth, stunning scenery, and close-knit community that made him feel right at home. Costa Rica became his cherished second home—a place that brought him peace, happiness, and plenty of good stories to tell. Whether he was enjoying the sun or sharing laughs with friends and family, it was clear that those years in paradise truly fueled his soul.

Ken was never one to sugarcoat anything—he could be stubborn, blunt, and sometimes a little rough around the edges. But beneath that tough exterior was a fiercely loving, loyal, and deeply caring soul. His unwavering commitment to those he loved was evident in everything he did. His stories, humor, and unmistakable presence will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Ken’s authentic spirit and big heart made an everlasting impression on everyone lucky enough to cross his path.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Olga and John Madu; his sons, Corey Madu and Davin Patterson; his granddaughters, Morgan and Jaxlynn; his nephew, Rick Baron; his sister, Mildred; and his brother and best friend, Don—his confidant, partner in crime, and someone he held very close to his heart.

Ken is survived by his loving children:

• Carrie (Mike) and their children, Lauren and Will

• Dawn Marie

• Bruce and his children, Shyanne, Tamara, and Tristan

• Danniel (Phil) and their little boy, Lewie

• Pam (Daniel) and their children, Sid and Miylee

• Barb and her children, Brody, Jayden, and Kenleigh

Ken is also survived by the family who was truly honored to have him live with them these past few years. They were the ones who showed him just how powerful a good hug and hearing "I love you" 50 times a day could be for the soul—and, to his surprise, he really did learn to love it. In fact, he embraced it wholeheartedly, and his love for those daily affirmations became a cherished part of his life. They will also deeply miss their lively Yahtzee games and all the laughs they shared around the table, moments that brought them even closer together.

His niece, Sheri-Ann Madu (John Berg), and their children:

• Kingsley (Brody) and their little man, Beckham—fondly known as “P Coltrane JR,” a nickname Uncle Ken loved to call him

• Keyana “Boo” (Hunter)

• Along with their family dog, Macy, who Ken just absolutely adored; they were best buddies

All of them loved him more than words can say and will deeply miss his presence in their everyday lives. His impact was profound, and his love, humor, and warmth will forever remain in their hearts.

Along with Ken’s nephews and niece:

• Frank (Cyndi) Baron and their children, Jordan and Rai-Lynne

• Keith (Tina) Baron and their children, Caitlyn, Cody (fondly known as “P Coltrane” by Uncle Ken), and Brandie (Daniel)

• David (Laurie) Baron and their children, Justin, Jesse, and Jason

• Tracy Weicht and her children, Connor and Shelby

As well as his lifelong friends—Marie Hill, Bill Young, Cliff and Donna Harmeson, Pat Tebbutt, and Dave and Jan Hegland—are among those left to carry his memory. These wonderful souls were just a few of the many who were blessed to share in his life, laughter, and quirks. He had a way of making everyone feel like family, often with a joke, a story, or a kind word that left a lasting impression.

He leaves behind countless other extended family members, near and far, who will carry his memory with them always—cherishing the moments, the laughs, and the love they shared. We are forever grateful for the time we had with Ken and for the countless wonderful memories that will never fade.

Ken’s absence will be deeply felt, like a missing piece of our hearts, but his spirit—full of love, humor, and kindness—will remain with us always. Though we’ll miss him more than words can express, we find comfort in knowing his legacy lives on in each of us and in the stories we’ll continue to tell.

The family will have a celebration of life in the spring of 2026.

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Condolences

  • November 28, 2025

    Vern Carnohan

    I called him my second dad. So many memories so many laughs. Ken gave me my first trucking job he gave me the keys and said if you are are ron carnohans son that's good enough for him I didn't even have a truck driving license lol . From then on we were friends. I had never met someone that just trusted and cared so much . From then on he called me young vernon. He was one of the good old boys it didn't matter how long between visits he always treated me like I was someone who mattered to him. I really thought I was worth something just being in his presence. My mom was in hospice when Ken was in there to one after noon we had a really good talk he told me how proud he was of me and I got to tell him how much he meant to me and I thanked him for always being my freind through good and bad . Its a memory a smile and a hug I will always keep in my heart and mind. I will see you again my freind in a better place and in a paradise beyond belief. Good bye for now my heart is heavy my sincere sympathy for all the family he enlightened all of us with his time on earth

  • November 25, 2025

    Garry Potrebenko

    Ironically I met Ken Madu in Costa Rica an my girlfriend Cara introduced us at Playa Negra Brewery I want you to meet my Canadian friends Ken and Don. He asked where in Canada I replied Spirit River he said Woking. He knew my brothers and we became friends for the last 5 years played many games of crib Yahtzee and Ching.on his back deck and ours in Costa Rica. So many laughs and memories over an Pilsner and gin and tonic's. You will always be in hearts and memories. Garry & Cara

  • November 24, 2025

    Fred Estlin

    Ken was always so positive and happy. I was his accountant forty years ago. We would talk about life far beyond business issues. When he and Diane were together shortly after the loss of their child in the school bus incident their sadness was so real. As a business man he was customer focused. Which was a big part of his success in life and friendships. The last time I saw him was about 5 years go he and Don were coming out of a cannabis store about 11am. Not surprisising but that was Ken.

  • November 24, 2025

    Shelley McCorkle

    Our family loved having Uncle Ken over for football fun and a great meals. He made Sundays something to look forward to. As a young couple back in 1995 we were able to stay in his home. When Josh was working for him at Nighthawk Vacuum Services. We were able to save up and get an apartment of our own. Cherished memories! We were able to visit the home in Costa Rica years later as well which was also amazing. Always open arms. Our son Brady also loved Uncle Kenny. He was able to go on a great ice fishing adventure with him last year that was so much fun. Even if the fishing wasn't great. We all loved our visits with the great man we are truly lucky to have had him in our lives❤️ Josh, Shelley and Brady McCorkle We are grateful that we were able to

  • November 24, 2025

    Connie Johnson

    Ken and Don were such a hoot! We loved them here in Costa Rica. How could you not? Such special humans they were. My sincere condolences to the family and friends in Canada. We were all very lucky to have known them both. I'll miss you Ken. RIP. Connie and Kevin Johnson

  • November 24, 2025

    Mary Trett

    He was the best friend that we had in Costa, we loved it when he came to visit , love and prayers to the family, Harlie and I will miss him❤️🙏

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