Help raise funds for Joe Madden's Family

Hi, my name is John Rice, and I am fundraising for my good friend Joe Madden’s family. Joe passed away on August 12 at the age of 50 following a lengthy and very difficult battle with lymphoma. Joe was a wonderful person who grew up on a farm in central Ohio, went to the University of Dayton, married his wife Erin, and has three wonderful daughters, Norah, Kerry, and Megan. Joe was the last person in the world who would ask anyone for assistance, but I’m sure he would appreciate this effort. I had an opportunity to speak with Joe just prior to his transport to hospice, he couldn’t speak, but he could hear and comprehend, and I promised that we would help take care of his family. The funds will primarily go towards the girls’ education, although, if necessary, I want Erin to feel free to use them for other purposes that support the family.

Those who know Joe appreciated his character. He was old school, a commitment was a commitment, and in my experience he never failed to come through. Joe was someone you could always count on. He was a man of few words, unless he got going on a topic, which I always respected. He listened intently, and then said what he had to say. And oh my he had a wicked, dry sense of humor. His humor injected at just the right moment helped us through many a tough patch at work.

Joe was active in his community – working bingo for his kids’ school, and was very active in his kids sporting activities. It was funny, he would complain about his busy schedule, but I quickly learned that was just a façade; this was a man who absolutely loved being with his family and involved in all their activities. He would recount his kids sports events as well as any commentator on ESPN, but with more humor. He was so passionate about his kids and their activities.

I am going to miss Joe, so much, and I speak for so many who knew him. Please join me in this fundraiser. If we could get a solid sum raised to support education, it would mean the world to Erin, the girls, and of course to Joe. Thank you for considering this fundraiser, and if you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this gofundme with your network. Thank you in advance, your support is greatly appreciated.