Our hearts are heavy as we announce the peaceful passing of our dear mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Ruby Madelyn Peterson Semken, at the age of 83. Madelyn departed this world surrounded by her loving family on August 19, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.
Born on June 12, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, to Howard Leon Peterson and Donnetta Lewis. Madelyn spent her formative years in the towns of Richfield and Monroe, Utah, alongside her four younger brothers. She was a proud graduate of South Sevier High School. Madelyn embarked on a journey of love and family by marrying Michael (Ed) Edward Smith in 1959, with which she shared the blessing of four children. Later divorced. Madelyn married Charles Henry Semken Jr. in 2003.
Madelyn poured her heart and soul into her family, serving as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She partnered in successful family businesses, embodying the values of hard work and determination instilled in her from a young age. Madelyn started her early teenage working career following farm tractors in the fields of Monroe picking up potatoes. She was paid three cents for each burlap bag she filled; mom said “this was the hardest job.”
Madelyn’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as she assisted in managing various family ventures with her children by her side, which include Phillip’s 66 Gas Station and Repair Garage, Salt Lake City, Utah; Texaco Gas Station and Repair Garage Helper, Utah; Amoco Gas Station and Repair Garage Price, Utah; Jolly Good Time Tours Helper, Utah and Smith Transit Inc. Helper, Utah. Along the way she created cherished memories and lifelong friendships.A talented artist, Madelyn’s passion for painting and creativity brought joy to all who knew her. Her favorite medium was oil painting and has gifted her family with many beautiful works of art. Her culinary skills and knack for crochet work and sewing added warmth and love to family gatherings. She found solace and joy in boating and camping in her favorite place Lake Powell, Utah where she would show off her suntan, slalom water skiing talents, constantly drinking TAB while reveling in the beauty of nature and the camaraderie of loved ones.
Madelyn’s proudest achievement was her family—her four wonderful children, Sue Ann, Mike, Corey and Corinna with numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who filled her life with joy and purpose. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will forever be cherished by those who were touched by her kindness and grace.
Madelyn is survived by her loving children: Sue Ann Heino (Scott), Corinna Smith, Corey Smith (Genefer). Eight grandchildren Joshua Heino, Jessica Heino, Ashley Heino, Niquolette Jones, Kody Smith, Sydney Smith, Savana Smith, Brandon Wilson; and six great-grandchildren Olivia Heino, Kora and Kian Jones, Karlee, Karissa and Karson Smith; faithful companion Molly; brother, John Swain; sister-in-law, Sylvia Peterson; and daughter-in-law, Wendy Smith. She is reunited in eternal peace with many loved ones including her parents, husband, Charles Semken Jr., son, Mike Smith, grandson, Kyle Smith, brothers, Pete Peterson, Dale Swain and Steve Peterson; as well as her beloved dog Maddy.
In honoring Madelyn’s life, a viewing will be held Friday, August 23, 2024 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., with a funeral to follow at Mitchell’s Mortuary Price, Utah at 11:00 a.m. Madelyn will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery in Helper, Utah. Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories online at www.mitchellfunralhome.net
The family wishes to express their profound gratitude to the compassionate team at Community Nursing Services and Hospice, particularly Carrie, Joe, Autumn, Natasha, Barbara, Charity, and Dr. Potter, for their care and support during Madelyn’s final days.
In Madelyn’s memory, may we carry forth her legacy of love, strength, and resilience. She will forever remain alive in our hearts, guiding us with her enduring spirit and unwavering love. Rest in peace, dear Mom, until we meet again.