Obituary

Madeline was born to Murray and Melva (Amsler) Mathieu on October 3, 1939 in La Salle-Peru, Illinois.
Her happiest years were spent with her husband of almost 30 years, L.Ray Ecalbarger. She had three children and worked hard raising them and providing the best life she could. She was always so nurturing and considered her family to be her greatest achievement.
She worked various jobs throughout her life with her favorite being landscaping. She loved all animals, especially horses and cats, and enjoyed music, gardening, camping and travel. Her traveling took her to Hawaii, Illinois to visit family, and to Mexico to work in an orphanage. Madeline was a friend to all and her laughter was contagious.
In November of 1982, Madeline asked Jesus to come into her heart. She loved Bible Study Fellowship and was a children’s teacher and leader for many years. She was very active in her church; singing in the choir, teaching the children, and planting and weeding the flowers. Teaching Bereans Lady Bible Study was her joy.
Survivors include her husband, L.Ray; daughter, Cindy (Bob) Mohr; sons, August and Dan; sons and daughters in law, Gary and Kathy Ecalbarger, and Monty and Anita Ecalbarger; sisters, Margie, Marcia, and Mary Kay; adopted daughter, Mercedes; all of her beloved grandchildren and step-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents; sister, Marian; and her brother, Mike.
Visitation will be Tuesday, October 11th from 5-7:00pm. A Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, October 12th at 2:00pm at Enterprise Cemetery (7041 Vista Dr, Ferndale) followed by a Memorial Service at Evergreen Community Church at 3:00pm (6899 N Enterprise Rd, Ferndale).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Teens for Christ Northwest (914 Citadel Dr. Suite D Everson WA 98247), Light House Mission (PO Box 548, Bellingham), Child Evangelism Fellowship of Whatcom County (PO box 3137. Ferndale), or the Evergreen Community Church (PO Box 1569, Ferndale).