Douglas Madderom

With deep love and gratitude, we remember the life of Douglas Madderom, a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, engineer, volunteer, and faithful servant of Christ.

Doug was born on June 6, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, to Sidney and Irene Madderom. He grew up alongside his beloved sister, Judy Churchill (née Madderom), in a home rooted in faith and family. Doug pursued higher education, first at Hope College, and then transferred to the University of Illinois, where he earned his degree in electrical engineering—a field where he would leave an indelible mark.

While attending university, Doug went on a blind date with a young woman named Marcia. That evening, over dinner and a screening of It’s a Mad Mad Mad Mad World, a love story began. They married on January 14, 1966, beginning a life of joy and partnership that spanned nearly six decades. Together, they raised three children—Lisa, Jonathon, and Sara—who were the pride of his life.

Doug began his career at Automatic Electric, which later became GTE, and finally, AG Communication Systems. He quickly made his mark, playing a key role in the design and development of the GTD-120 Digital PABX system. His excellence and innovation were recognized with the prestigious Leslie H. Warner Award, honoring his contributions to the growth and profitability of the GTE companies. In 1978, Doug and his colleagues were transferred to Arizona, where he would continue his distinguished engineering career for over 40 years.

Retirement didn’t suit Doug—he found himself missing the rhythm and purpose of work. That’s when he found a new calling at the Phoenix Zoo. First volunteering as a docent—enthusiastically sharing knowledge of the bird-eating spider—he later became a dedicated employee. Doug gave over 20 years of service to the zoo, sharing his love of learning and delighting his grandchildren with camel rides and train adventures.

Doug and Marcia were blessed with six grandchildren—Rebecca, Sydney, Rachael, Samantha, Joshua, and Chloe—and one great-grandchild, JT. To them, he was not just “Grandpa,” but a storyteller, explorer, teacher, and friend.

Doug’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. Raised in the Reformed faith in Chicago, he continued his walk with Christ in Arizona, faithfully attending Palm Lane CRC for over 40 years, followed by Valley Presbyterian Church, and finally AZ Community Church.

On April 23, 2025, at the age of 84, Doug was called home to be with his Savior after a short struggle with rapidly progressing cancer. While we mourn the loss of his presence, we celebrate the legacy of love, wisdom, and faith he leaves behind.

Doug will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by his loving wife Marcia, his children and grandchildren, his great-grandchild, his sister Judy, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and brilliance.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

The memorial service for Doug  will be held on May 23, at 1pm at the Phoenix Christian Reformed Church at 2438 E. Earl Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85016. All are welcome.

To honor Douglas and In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Feed my Starving Children or the Phoenix Zoo.