Keith D. Madsen
Keith Dennis Madsen was born on November 26, 1945, to Edmund and Evelyn (Andersen) Madsen. He attended school in Elk Horn and graduated from Elk Horn-Kimballton High School with the Class of 1964.
On September 22, 1965, Keith enlisted in the United States Army and faithfully served his country until receiving an honorable discharge on September 3, 1968.
Keith was united in marriage to Nancy Maassen on November 7, 1970, in Walnut, Iowa. Together they made their home west of Elk Horn, where they farmed and raised Shorthorn cow-calf cattle. In 1986, Keith began working at Mahle in Atlantic. Even while working full-time at Mahle, he continued farming, balancing both careers with dedication and a strong work ethic. Keith remained at Mahle for the next 30 years before retiring in 2016.
Keith was a member of Monroe Chapel in rural Walnut. He was known for his remarkable work ethic and his ability to repurpose just about anything. A man of simple pleasures, Keith enjoyed sitting outside watching his chickens, listening to KNOD Radio, or, as those who knew him would jokingly say, “watching his eyelids.” He was easygoing, calm, kind, and generous, and it never took much to make him happy.
Christmas was one of Keith’s greatest joys, and he celebrated the season with enthusiasm. For more than 20 years, he and Nancy made their annual trip to Branson, Missouri, to begin their Christmas shopping while also enjoying the beautiful Christmas lights and festive holiday decorations throughout the city. He also looked forward to attending the Clay County Fair in Spencer, a tradition he enjoyed for nearly 60 years. Keith was a devoted Kansas City Royals fan and rarely missed the opportunity to watch a game. He also enjoyed attending local high school sporting events and cheering on area athletes.
Above all else, Keith treasured his family. He looked forward to the family’s annual vacations and made sure each trip included a visit to a baseball game. He always welcomed friends and family who stopped by the farm and was quick to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Keith faithfully kept a diary, writing in it every day. His granddaughter, Peyton, meant the world to him, and some of his favorite memories were the road trips they shared to local parks.
Keith passed away on Monday, July 21, 2026, at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, at the age of 80 years, 7 months, and 25 days. Keith was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Nancy Lou Madsen; and his brother, Charlie Madsen.
He is lovingly remembered by his two sons, Brent (Alicia) Madsen and Greg (Tina) Madsen, both of Elk Horn; his beloved granddaughter, Peyton Madsen of Elk Horn; his brothers, Gary Madsen of Council Bluffs, Terry (Deb) Madsen of Elk Horn, and Kent Madsen of Council Bluffs; his sister-in-law, Anina Madsen of McClelland; as well as many other relatives and friends.
A funeral service was held at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Harlan First Methodist Church in Harlan, Iowa with Rev. Steve McElroy as officiant. Serving as musician was Dianne Book. Serving as pallbearers were Bryan Andersen, Curtis Letner, Andy Anderson, Kenny Petersen, Darren Miller and Dave Miller. Following the service, the family invited everyone to the church hall for a time of fellowship and lunch. Interment was in the Elk Horn Cemetery in Elk Horn, Iowa with Military Honors provided by Elk Horn American Legion Post 322 and the Iowa Army Honor Guard. Services were entrusted to the Heartland Funeral Home.
