Madelin Frances Varner

Madelin Frances Varner, 85 and longtime resident of Longview, Washington passed into the arms of Jesus on February 2nd, 2025. 

Madelin was born on August 14th, 1939 in Whittier, California as the eldest child and daughter of Arthur Llewelyn Williams and Hendrena Augla Viljoen.  

She graduated from Whittier Union High in 1957. Madelin also completed an occupational program at Tri Cities Regional, receiving her Certified Nursing Assistant certification. 

Madelin was married to Gail Varner in 1957 for 21 years. They had 4 children together - Karen, Steven, and Michael, and later adopting Sheryl. Together they also provided a loving home for many foster children in need over many years. Later in life, Madelin married Leslie Bader and they remained by each other's side until his passing in 2005. 

Madelin volunteered her time at the Progress Center in Longview, worked as a laborer at Crown Zellerbach, security at Trojan, and as a CNA until her retirement. Aside from her work, she enjoyed bowling, Birthday Club with her friends, shopping, reading, puzzles, dancing, spoiling her grandkids, and a good glass of wine or a red beer.  

Remaining family to cherish Madelin’s memory are her sister Susan Williams, children Steven Varner, Mike Varner, and Sheryl Davenport, step-children Dennis Bader, David Bader, Jeff Bader, and Marcie Fisher, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Preceding Madelin in death are Leslie Bader, her daughter Karen Varner, her parents Arthur and Hendrena Williams, and brother Tom Williams and sister Tina Williams.

Madelin’s Celebration of Life will be held at the Steele Chapel at Longview Memorial Park on February 28th at 1pm. Light refreshments and dessert to follow.