Orville L. Madson Jr.

Orville L. "Bud" Madson, Jr., June 30, 1946 ~ February 26, 2026

Orville L. “Bud” Madson Jr died on February 26, 2026 at the Eastern Nebraska Veteran’s Home. He was born in Omaha on June 30, 1946 to Donna (Grape) and Orville L. Madson Sr. He graduated Benson High School in 1964 and began working for the Union Pacific Railroad. He was drafted during Vietnam and served honorably from 1967 to 1970 in the United States Navy aboard the USS Chicago, where he achieved the rank of Petty Officer Second Class. Upon discharge, he returned to the Union Pacific and in 1970 met his wife DeEtta (Westerbuhr). They married in April 1971. He worked for the Union Pacific for 38 years in the signal department. First, on the signal gang, then as a signal maintainer, and ultimately as a manager of signal maintenance, until his retirement.

He enjoyed being a father and a grandfather. His favorite pastimes included riding roller coasters at World’s of Fun with his children, having water gun fights in the house with his grandson, and having his granddaughter take a nap on his chest. He loved to hunt along the South Platte River as well as to play with his pugs.

He is survived by DeEtta, his wife of more than 54 years; children, Cheryl Madson and Chad (Margarita) Madson; grandchildren, Alexander and Angela; his sisters, Gina Madson and Jo Lynne (Fred) Veleba; nieces and nephews; and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, grandmother Josephine, infant brother Danny, and infant granddaughter Josephine.

VISITATION: Monday, March 2, 2026 from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at Braman Mortuary (Millard Chapel).

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 1:00 pm, at Fort McPherson National Cemetery (Maxwell, NE).

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Children's Nebraska or Pets For Vets

Braman Mortuary & Cremation Services, 6505 S. 144th St. Omaha, NE 68137 / 402-895-3400