Madeline Marie Denecker

RIGA- Madeline Marie Denecker, 88, of Riga Township, passed peacefully from this life surrounded by her children at 9:43 AM on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Blissfield Place in Blissfield, MI. She was born on August 8, 1937, in Monroe, MI, to the late Jerome and Margaret (Delrue) Vandevelde. On October 19, 1957, she married George Denecker at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Monroe, MI. Together they built a life on their farm, raised a family, and were blessed with 65 years of marriage. A devout Catholic, Madeline was a member of Light of Christ Catholic Church in Blissfield, MI. Her greatest joys were her children, her grandchildren, and her faith. She attended mass daily when she was able and was dedicated to praying the rosary. As a young woman, Madeline nurtured her children, supported George’s work on the farm, and operated the family’s fruit and vegetable stand. Throughout life, Madeline enjoyed the simple things: cooking for her family, playing cards, and taking the occasional trip to the casino. She will be remembered for her laughter, her smile, and for the power of her prayers. Survivors include her children: Shirley A. (John Helberg) Judson of Waterville, OH; Larry G. (Celma) Denecker of Lynchburg, VA; Maurice J. (Jean) Denecker of Riga, MI; and Gregory J. (Christine) Denecker of Bluffton, OH. Madeline had six grandchildren: Donnie Judson, Melissa (Mitch) Petersen, Bryce Denecker, Claire Denecker, Gabe Denecker, and Luke Denecker. She was recently blessed with four bonus grandchildren: Fernanda Freitas, Jennifer (Kade) Larew, Jessica Freitas, and Jasmine Freitas. Madeline is also survived by her sister, Patricia (Roger) Kidd; her sister-in-law, Laura Vandevelde; and many loving nieces and nephews including her great-niece, Jessica Vandevelde, who held a special place in her heart. Madeline was preceded in death by her husband, George Denecker; an infant daughter, Therese Denecker; her siblings: Theresa Vandevelde, James Vandevelde, and Mary Jane Janssens; and her brother-in-law Richard Janssens. The family would like to thank the staff at Blissfield Place for their kind, patient, and compassionate care of Madeline. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 11 AM at the Light of Christ Parish, St. Peter the Apostle Church in Blissfield with Fr. Jeffrey Poll as celebrant. Burial will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday, November 24, from 3-7 PM at Wagley Funeral Home, Tagsold Chapel, Blissfield, with a rosary service at 7:00 PM. Donations can be made to the Light of Christ Parish, Blissfield, MI. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHomes.com.

Madeline Marie Denecker

August 8, 1937 - November 19, 2025