Madelyn Mecum-Severson, 88, of Madison/Cottage Grove, WI, passed away on January 16, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on June 30, 1937, in Viola, WI, Madelyn was the oldest of five children born to Gerald and Carol (Hockenberry) Pellett. She grew up in Richland Center, WI, and graduated from Richland Center High School in 1955. Around this time, she met the love of her life, Donald “Don” Mecum. They were married in 1957 and became the proud parents of three wonderful boys, eventually settling in Madison.

After Don’s unexpected passing in 1970, Madelyn devoted herself to raising their three sons on her own for many years. She later found love again and married Eugene “Gene” Severson.

Madelyn worked at American Family Insurance for over 30 years. Throughout her life, she wore many hats: den mother to her boys, cake decorator, enthusiastic cheerleader at her grandchildren’s activities, chief memory-maker with her great-grandchildren, and an unpaid coach for the Green Bay Packers. Madelyn was always willing to lend a helping hand or step up and lead the charge when something needed to be done. She was a friend to all who knew her.

Madelyn is survived by her sons, Doug Mecum of Viola, David (Laura) Mecum of Poynette, and Richard (Cheri) Mecum of Madison; grandchildren, Jasmine, Justin, Casey, Jeff, Kelly, Rick, Tony, and Mikey; great-grandchildren, Chloe, Jaydon, Gage, Liam, Easton, Mason, Bailey, and Archer; her brother, Francis “Whitey” Pellett; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; and her brothers, Donnie, Bernie (Judy), and Gordy Pellett.

Madelyn will be laid to rest beside her husband, Don Mecum, at Roselawn Memorial Park. A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

Madelyn’s family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the teams at Drumlin Memory Care and Agrace HospiceCare for their compassionate care and support.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Madelyn Severson

June 30, 1937 - January 16, 2026

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