January 28, 1963 - May 28, 2020
Valentine "Val" Madon passed away surrounded with the love of friends and family on Thursday, May 28, 2020 at the age of 57 years. Predeceased by his parents Aloxje and Sandra; Val is survived by his brother Rodney (Moira, Cole); 2 dogs Karma and Eva as well as many friends. Born and raised in Port Alberni, Val worked for the Paper Mill for over 32 years always hard working, never afraid to get dirty or lend a hand. Val loved to banter and tease, always looking to entertain himself and others with his wit and dark humor , the more shocking the better for Val as many close to him could attest.
Val was an engaged vocal employee of the Paper Mill taking on several roles over the years from Crew Safety Captain, to a Certified Forklift Training Instructor. Val also participated in many Union roles from Shop Steward, Executive Trustee and First Vice President as well as being on the Executive of our local Fish and Wildlife Club.
Val, as a Certified Harley Davidson Mechanic, had a passion for cars and bikes. Val could be seen riding to work on his skooter at five in the morning,in the middle of winter wearing his signature Stanfield sweater, shorts and smoke in his mouth, or riding one of his Harley's. His car collection and projects, many in "the Lotus" position, were varied and beautiful from Toyota's to Hummer's, to Lotus's to Cobra's, not to mention his classic Vettes. He spent countless hours researching and collecting the parts for each project. Val, the consummate dreamer, had a vision for each one and never stopped dreaming even to the very end.
Karma and Eva, Val's two Dobermans were the love of his life, nothing made him happier than to have them jump into the H1 or the Jeep and head into the Forest trails for nice long walks, it was an incredibly sad day when he was no longer strong enough to walk his "girls"', his greatest simple pleasure.
Val had always lived his life on his own terms, he had no regrets, and was grateful for the life he got to enjoy. The homeless and less fortunate were never lost on him, Val found ways of giving back to those in need without recognition.
His original prognosis suggested he would have two years, two years to plan his affairs, two years to make some dreams come true. Cancer has it's own timeline, in the end he was given two weeks and fought hard for 10 weeks. During that time so many friends , co-workers and acquaintances stepped up to share their support and love. Being sick or terminal during a Pandemic is a cruel and lonely place for many, but Port Alberni, our little town with a huge heart, once again rose above and gave Val an incredible car parade lasting for a couple of hours as friends pulled out their Hotrods, sports cars and trucks to offer a kind word, love and support.
Words are not enough to express what that all meant to Val, a heartfelt thank you goes out to all those that participated in that incredible show of caring.
Val was eternally grateful for every act of kindness, visit, text, voicemail and phone call, sadly as the illness evolved, Val's ability to respond was not always possible but he always got your message. So many people stepped up to support Val. Carolin, who selflessly opened up her arms and home for his palliative care, to Pat who took great care of his two favorite "girls". Gordy who helped and supported Val as he did his best to get some of his affairs in order. To Shon and Kathy who managed to bring some much needed laughter (and gourmet meals) To brother Rodney who was there with him every night at Ty Watson House giving him great peace.
A huge thank you to the Volunteers and Nurses at Ty Watson House, spoiling him with comfort food and kindness.
He had unconditional love for all those he held dear. In turn, he was humbled and thankful for all those who supported him during this sickness and appreciated beyond all words the care and visits his friends and coworkers who came by to visit him. According to Val's wishes, no formal service will be held. Stories and condolences may be offered to the family at http://www.chapelofmemories.ca in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ty Watson House or acts of kindness to those most in need. 
Chapel of Memories