Gary Madia

Gary Lee Madia, 78, fondly known as “Skinny, of Sheridan, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2024, while doing one of his favorite pastimes, playing cards on his computer.  Hearts of course.  A family tradition.

Born in Sheridan on July 27th, 1945 to Daniel J. and Jeanne E. (Day) Madia. He attended Holy Name Catholic School grades 4 through 8 and graduated in 1963 from Sheridan High School where he excelled in football and basketball.  Many stories are told about how Holy Name never lost a ballgame when the Madia boys played.

Gary worked while going to school at his Uncle Joe Kobielusz’s ranch and later at Bondi’s Union 76 Gas Station.  After graduation, he worked as a parts man during the day and bar tended at the Trail Bar on weekends. Gary later started his lifelong career with Kiewit Mining at Decker Coal. He began at the bottom in the warehouse and ended his mining career as a Coal Production Superintendent, retiring after 35 years. One of his most memorable days at the mine was when they safely walked a drag line across Tongue River.  He made many friends and had a lot of fun, most of which can’t be told today, but look around for the biggest smiles. They had fun as well.

Gary was a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge #520 in Sheridan.  His enjoyments in life were hunting (especially elk), fly fishing, playing cards with family, and spending as much time as possible in the Bighorn Mountains. He loved every dusty road, flowing stream, and evening drive to view wildlife.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, twin brother Larry, brother Ken, and stepson Tim Fiedor.  He is survived by his wife, Donna Ray (Fiedor) Madia whom he claimed as his bride on July 27, 1976. Gary’s son, Bryan Madia, was born to Gary and Kathy (Meich) Madia.  Stepson, Jeff (Rita) Fiedor, Pat (Amanda) Fiedor, grandchildren Nanciann, Rianna, Alaina, Jerzey, Jarek, Ty, Brittany, and several great-grandchildren.

So, my dear husband, you will be cherished and treasured in our hearts forever. When I hear the rumble of thunder, I will know you and the family are together and the game has begun. The lightning, well we know what that represents, It’s the Italian way.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, March 26th at Holy Name Catholic Church. Father Phil Wagner will be officiating. A public viewing will be held at 9:30 am.  Rosary will begin at 10:00 and Mass will be at 10:30, a reception will immediately follow the service in Parish Hall.   Father Phil Wagner will be officiating.  Internment will be in the Elks section of the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.

In place of flowers donations can be made to the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter.

Online condolences may be written at www.kanefuneral.com. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.