Iron County judge dead at 69

By RICHARD JENKINS

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Hurley — Iron County Judge Patrick Madden died last week, ending over three decades on the bench. He was 69.

Madden was found in his home Wednesday morning, according to courthouse officials.

Madden served on the bench for 33 years, starting when Gov. Anthony Earl appointed him in June 1986 to replace retiring judge John Varda. Madden was first elected to the bench in 1987.

Prior to becoming a judge, Madden served as Iron County district attorney and corporation counsel in 1985.

Courthouse officials told the Daily Globe Gary Carlson, of Medford, will serve as a reserve judge for the county until Gov. Tony Evers appoints a replacement. The county hasn’t received a timeline for the appointment.

In addition to his law degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madden held a master’s degree in public administration and in judicial studies. He also had a degree in psychology from UW-Green Bay. He was also involved in several community organizations.

Funeral arrangements haven’t been announced yet.