Eliza (Liza) J. Madsen was born to Natalie (Snively) Petersen and F.A. Petersen in New Orleans, Louisiana November 16, 1948. Liza spent her formative years in Casper Wyoming, During her time in Casper, Liza was known for her fun loving approach to life resulting in adventures with fast cars, dancing venues and other activities involving hi-jinks. Liza raised her children Jeanine M. Madsen and Luke A. Madsen in Laramie, Wyoming with her former husband Jonathan (Jon) Madsen. Liza was a spirited and loving mother with a quick wit and a wicked sense of humor, who without fail put the wellbeing and happiness of those around her before that of her own. During her life, Liza embodied many roles. For many years Liza provided beautician services to family and friends. Liza was a long time employee with the Albany County School District creating lasting bonds with her young students. Later in life, Liza relocated to Denver where she founded a charity at the local library to provide a safe learning environment for after school activities in the name of her mother, Natalie Petersen. Liza also acted as “tooth fairy” for many, providing life changing dental and orthodontic work. Liza had an insatiable curiosity about the world and history spending time reading both fiction and non fiction and seeking out historical sights when she traveled. Liza carried forth her mother’s love of theater, attending Broadway shows, plays and other events with friends and family at the Denver Center of the Performing Arts.
Liza is survived by her loving children Jeanine Madsen of Laramie, WY; Luke Madsen of Victor ID, Darbi Neff (Luke Madsen) of Victor ID and grandchildren Kathleen (Kat) and Christopher Gruschow of Northville MI. Liza’s prevailing gift to her descendants is her humor, curiosity and generosity.
Liza was preceded in death by her loving brothers Christopher Petersen, Garth Petersen, Guy Petersen and her parents F.A. and Natalie Petersen.
A private Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Jeanine and Luke request that in lieu of flowers, people act in a generous spirit towards those they love.
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