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Bruce Warren Madison

Bruce Warren Madison, 58, died Jan. 13, 2011, at the Queen of the Valley Hospital from melanoma cancer.

Bruce was born on Nov. 25, 1954, in San Mateo to Marie Caroline and Dean Eden Madison.

In 1960, he moved with his family to Napa, graduating from Napa High School in 1972. He later earned his AA and AS in criminal justice from Napa Valley College. While in college he worked with the campus police department and as a dispatcher for St. Helena Police Department.

Bruce married Debra Sue Mackenzie on March 2, 1980. Together they raised four lovely children, Erik Warren Madison, Laura Shantel Bell, Stephanie Nicole and Robert Sean Madison.

Bruce worked for the Sonoma Police Department for 26 years; starting out as a reserve, he worked his way through the department while holding several positions. While as a sergeant in the department, he also supervised the bicycle patrol program and was an advisor to the explorer post. Upon retiring in 2005, he also worked security for Silverado Country Club and the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. He was often referred to as a "worker-bee," believing there was never enough time in the day to get everything accomplished. He loved being outside and enjoying nature.

In his spare time, while not working on his yard or the never-ending list of projects, he took pleasure in camping, hiking and rock climbing with his family in Yosemite. He also enjoyed fixing things around the house, and was his toughest critic when it came to maintaining and keeping up with his ever-changing projects. He was dedicated to both his family and his job. Those who knew Bruce knew he never took life too seriously, and always maintained a sense of humor that only those close to him would understand.

He is survived by his wife, children and brother, Scott Madison. He was predeceased by his parents and brother Hugh Madison. He had one son-in-law, many nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 29, in the Sonoma Historic Park, on the field directly behind the Sonoma Police Department. The Chaplain Stephen Brannon will be officiating.

The family has asked any memorial donations be made to the Melanoma Research Foundation or the Yosemite Conservancy.