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Obituary: Jonelle Grace Madsen of Atherton, recently celebrated 70th wedding anniversary

Jonelle Grace Madsen, who resided in Atherton for the past 36 years, died Oct. 8, just a few weeks after she and her husband Thor Madsen celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

She was born in Seattle, Washington, in 1923 and moved to Los Angeles shortly thereafter. At the age of 14, while in high school, she met Thor, the "love of her life," say family members. Two years later, they married.

She lived in San Carlos for 30 years before moving to Atherton.

She was a member of Little House Activity Center (she always looked forward to Monday movies), the Atherlons, and an investment group.

Throughout her life, say family members, she kept her mind sharp, completing the newspaper crossword puzzle each day, and following the stock market. She was an avid bridge player, playing in many bridge groups. She enjoyed the challenge of bridge, but most of all loved the friendships she developed with the players.

She took a lively interest in women's and men's sports; traveled the world with her husband, family and friends; and enjoyed cooking and baking. She was famous for her homemade pies and apricot jam, say family members. In addition, she was an expert knitter and seamstress, they said.

She is survived by her husband Thor; brother Roy Heavenston; children Barbara Woodward, John Madsen and Carolyn Caine; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

There will be no service, according to her request. The family asks that memorial donations be sent to: Sequoia Hospital, Foundation Nursing Scholarship Fund, 170 Alameda de las Pulgas, Redwood City, CA 94062.