Judith Louise Bergren Madden"In order to have friends, you must first be one."Though this quote is widely attributed to philosopher Elbert Hubbard, this is the mantra by which Judith Louise Madden lived her life. Judy passed away at home on Sunday, October 23, 2016, with her dear friend and caregiver, Andrew White, by her side. Her recent cancer diagnosis was confronted with strength and with grace, and when she knew it would not relent, there was acceptance, coupled with gratitude for the fullness of her life.Judy was born on February 7, 1943, in Tacoma, WA to Edward and Helen (Reese) Bergren. She grew up in West Seattle along with her brother Eddie where she attended Holy Rosary and West Seattle High School. Growing up she made many lifelong friends, one in particular, Julie (Smith) Wood, who would become her best friend and co-conspirator - the original 'trouble with angels' duo!In 1967 Judy met Joseph Madden, whom she would later marry. Joe worked for The Boeing Company and his work took them to Philadelphia and later to Brussels and Munich. Joe was admitted to the Sloan Program at Stanford University and California became yet another home. Joe was taken by pancreatic cancer just a few short months before Judy's passing. Though they divorced late in life they remained friends, and many of our memories of Judy will be forever intertwined with those of Joe.Judy was a gracious hostess and a master of entertaining. An invitation to dinner was the promise of a spectacular meal, lively conversation and certain laughter. Dining at the Maddens was an experience - Judy had a gift for hospitality that many aspire to and few achieve. In welcoming guests into her home, she planned every fine detail to such a degree that it appeared effortless, allowing Judy to enjoy and be fully present to her guests. She didn't like a 'fuss'!Judy's children were her friends' children. They were the recipients of her unbridled love and generosity and most were also taught a bit about manners by 'Auntie Judy'. She treated her friends' children as her own and was always there if someone needed a little extra help. She also loved all animals. She had an emphatic attraction toward any four legged creature. She adored her pets and cared for them with a special love. Judy's true legacy will be in her ability to attract friends. She made friends all over the world, at the coffee shop, walking the dog down the street, at the grocery store.... Chances are, if you encountered Judy, you were welcomed into the circle of her friendship. She was the antithesis of 'all about me'. She was interested. She was interesting. She was not without opinions and what they were was never in question. At the same time, if yours weren't the same, there was no judgment. She never put herself on a pedestal - she was equal to all. Judy is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Eddie and Gloria Bergren, and her loyal dog and companion of many years, Hermes. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward & Helen Bergren, Joseph Madden, best friend Julie Wood, and many loving pets. It is not possible to mention all of the friends who survive Judy. So many lives have been enriched by the elegant and statuesque woman with the signature laugh. So many hearts are grateful for the gift of her friendship and love.At Judy's request, a "Celebration of Life" will take place Sunday, November 13 at the Seattle Yacht Club - Fireside Lounge, from 4:00-7:00pm. 1807 East Hamlin Street, Seattle, Washington 98112 In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Seattle Humane Society.Sign Judy's on lineGuest Book at www.Legacy.com