Gunnar Madsen, born on June 7, 1932, in the picturesque town of Nykøbing, Denmark, passed away peacefully at his home on August 10, 2026, at the age of 94. Gunnar was the son of Thorvald and Klara Madsen, and he is now reunited with them and his beloved brother, Neils Peter, who predeceased him.
Gunnar is survived by his sister Vera and husband Hugo Christensien and many relatives in Denmark and Canada.
Gunnar's life was a testament to dedication, love, and compassion. In 1962, he married his cherished wife, Mary, and together they celebrated 64 years of a beautiful marriage, filled with laughter, partnership, and unwavering devotion. Their union was blessed with a son, Trevor, who carries forward Gunnar's legacy with pride.
A man of remarkable intellect, Gunnar was educated in Denmark, where he earned an engineering degree. He applied his skills and ingenuity by founding Canadian Process & Control Ltd. in 1963, a company that stands as a testament to his hard work and determination.
Gunnar also served his homeland with honor in the Danish Army, a period that instilled in him a lifelong sense of duty and camaraderie. His Danish heritage remained dear to him throughout his life, as evidenced by his active membership in the Danish Brotherhood and the Danish Church. He was a cornerstone of the Danish community, playing a pivotal role in the Danish House Society and contributing significantly to the construction of the Carl Mortensen Building.
Gunnar's heart, however, was not confined solely to his professional and community endeavors. He was a man who embraced life with joy and zeal. Gunnar and Mary spent 27 delightful winters in Arizona, where he indulged in his passion for golf, playing at least three times a week. Those who knew him will fondly remember his quick wit and infectious smile, always ready with a witty remark to lighten any mood. His kindness and generosity left an indelible mark on everyone he met, making them feel welcomed and valued.
In his memory, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, reflecting Gunnar's spirit of giving and his desire to support causes close to his heart.
Gunnar Madsen's life was a rich tapestry of love, laughter, and legacy. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to know him.
A celebration of life service will be held on August 27, 2026 at 1:30pm at the Danish Lutheran Church - 6010 Kincaid Street Burnaby, BC.
August 27th, 2026
Min onkel “The Superman”
Altid gavmild smilende og et stort legebarn.
Jeg sætter så stor pris på alle “first time’s” mange timer har vi snakket grint og lavede hyggelige ting.
One of the funny storis's was, at Ak Chin, Mary & Gunnar was gamling, and I was lying out at the pool, Gunnar came with big Pina Colada’s and the girls at the pool site tought that Gunnar was my sugar daddy. We laughed so much.
Thanks for being you, the sky has got a new star.
I love you, and you will be missed ♥️
August 27th, 2026
I have known Gunner since I was a little boy as he and Mary would often be at dinner parties with my parents. Gunner was also kind, joyous and fun to be around. He has amazing energy and always loved to have a great time. Loved our chats and his cigars ! He will be dearly missed. Rest in peace Gunner,
Derek Love
August 24th, 2026
Gunner, a memory-
The smell of cigar smoke drifting in from a home just down the street. The laugh from a fine older gentleman was to me more like an impish child, avoiding trouble for a harmless thought or deed.
Always a smile behind those inquisitive eyes. He had a gentle but probing look- when he heard something that piqued his interest. He sometimes looked away, but don't be fooled, Gunner was always present. Mind always considering.
This man was a true gentleman from the "old school," a man I shall not forget. Our world surely needs more like him these days.
My beliefs tell me he will come back again.
I say to this belief, Gunner, my friend, hurry back soon; our world needs a true gentle soul like you. Thank you for being with us; we were indeed blessed with your presence.
Barry
August 20th, 2026
We met Gunnar through my late husband. He was childhood friends with Mary’s brother, Clayton, so as adults we met up again and the friendship connected again as adult and as marriages happened.
Gunnar and Mary were so welcoming and we had many visits, dinners in their home. My girls still talk about the visits at Gunnar & Marys…
We were on holidays in Hawaii with our 4 girls and met up with them. On another trip to Hawaii, just my husband and myself, we met with them..Gunnar had brought his Mom along on the trip.
We toured the island and Gunnar loved showing his Mom everything…
We went swimming on the North Shore and the waves were so strong. I fell and Gunnar rushed in the ocean and helped, to try and get me up, as the waves were very strong and get me to the shore. We laughed so hard about that….
I loved taking su set pictures and especially in Hawaii….Gunnar always said…did you get pictures of the sunset last night? Aren’t they really the same….I think he liked teasing me about that..
I know Gunnar loved his family and his friends….
I know Gunnar will be missed by family and friends as well..
Rest in Peace…Gunnar.
I have so many fond memories of our time that we all spent together.
Mary, your were blessed with Gunnar 🙏 and please take care of yourself too…
Jill…
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