Our beloved Opa went to be with the Lord on April 22, 2017. Harold was born on July 31, 1919 in Clinton, Iowa to Ejler and Matihilde Madsen. He was predeceased in death by his parents; sister, Lillian; brother, Fred; and now joins his beloved wife, Phyllis, who passed away in 2009.

Phyllis and Harold were married in 1941. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the US Navy and was stationed in sunny San Diego, CA, where Phyllis joined him. He wasn’t sent overseas because he possessed a skill: shorthand. His sister, Lillian, helped him study at night by the light of one bare light bulb above the kitchen table. He could take dictation at over 100 wpm.  Many officers considered him worth his weight in gold as none of the other male secretaries could take shorthand. After the war, he was discharged and started his long and successful career with Bank of America, where he became the youngest bank branch manager in San Diego County.

In 1965, he was transferred to Ventura to manage the downtown branch of the bank. In 1970, he transferred again to the Beverly Hills branch. After retirement in 1980, and seeking new adventures, Phyllis and Harold moved to Sonora, CA, and traveled throughout the world. A few years later, they returned to Southern California and settled in Camarillo.

He leaves behind his sons, Steven (Rosemarie) and Christopher; grandchildren, Ehrich (Heather), Brian (Tiffany) and Lisa; and two great-grandchildren, Remington and Alex.

He loved going to the Chumash Casino with his son, Chris, where Harold played Blackjack and Chris headed toward the buffets. We thank Chris for providing Harold with loving care for the last 18 months. 

During his final weeks, he had visits from his grandchildren, Ehrich, Brian, and Lisa and great-children, Remmie and Alex.

 Service Information