Madelyn Siemsen

Madelyn’s life numbered 93 years, nine months, and 23 days. She entered into eternal rest on Saturday, October 14, 2017, at Green Pine Acres Nursing Home, Menahga, Minnesota, where she had been a resident since February of this year. Her room at Green Pine Acres had a view of her Menahga home, located just across the street.

A native of Wadena County, Madelyn Marie was born in Orton Township on December 21, 1921, the first child of Hubert Harold Schermerhorn and Hilda Marie (Nelson) Schermerhorn. After her father’s death in 1929, her mother married Melvin Rasmusson in 1931. Madelyn was a graduate of Sebeka High School and during World War II served her country as a “Rosie” at the Northwest Airlines aircraft refurbishment facility in St. Paul. During the war she developed a “pen-pal” relationship with a former neighbor, Harold J. Siemsen, and within two weeks after Harold’s return from the war they were married in Wadena County on November 6, 1945.

Madelyn and Harold acquired a farm on the Crow Wing River in Orton Township early in 1946, which was their home for many years. Economic circumstances compelled them to relocate to California from 1958 until 1974, with many happy summer vacations spent on their Minnesota farm. Madelyn and Harold returned to their farm in 1974 where they enjoyed many more happy years together. After Harold’s death Madelyn sold the farm and moved to Menahga.

She was an active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church and a docent with the Menahga Area Historical Society and Museum. Her interests included Bible study, family history, quilting, reading, and working in her garden.

Madelyn was preceded in death by her father Hubert; step-father Melvin Rasmusson; mother Hilda; two sisters, Mary Lenore and Mrs. Ethyren Lehner; two brothers, Jerome and Hubert; husband Harold; and her first son, John. She is survived by sons: Stephen, Michael, and Timothy, six  grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

A memorial service for Madelyn will be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Menahga on November 4 at 12 noon, reception following.

“Now numbered with the Saints above in blessed heavenly chorus, the dear mother we so love – O, that Saint once stood before us.”