Lucille 'Erma' Christenson Madore, Longtime Vancouver Resident, Dies at 101

Erma was known for her love of music, family, and faith, leaving a lasting legacy in the community.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:51pm

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A softly blurred, impressionistic photograph in warm, hazy tones depicting an intimate family gathering, with indistinct figures and shapes representing the love and togetherness that defined Erma Madore's life.The vibrant life and enduring legacy of Lucille 'Erma' Christenson Madore, a beloved community member who lived to 101 and left an indelible mark on her family and Vancouver.Vancouver Today

Lucille 'Erma' Christenson Madore, a longtime resident of Vancouver, Washington, passed away on March 13, 2026 at the age of 101. Erma was born in Flint, Michigan in 1924 and lived a full life, working a variety of jobs, raising eight children, and finding joy in music, family, and her Christian faith.

Why it matters

Erma's story is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Greatest Generation, who overcame hardship and adversity to build fulfilling lives and leave a lasting impact on their communities. Her life exemplifies the values of hard work, family, and faith that defined her era.

The details

Erma was the oldest of five sisters and had to quit school in 9th grade to help run her family's small grocery store and gas station. During World War II, she worked as a 'Rosie the Riveter' at an auto parts factory. After the war, she married her husband Gene, and they raised eight children together while moving to California and eventually settling in Vancouver in 1991. Erma worked a variety of jobs over the years, including as a mail carrier, department store supervisor, and real estate agent. She was also deeply religious, accepting Jesus as her Savior in 1974 and finding comfort in Scripture, especially Psalm 23.

  • Erma Christenson was born on April 22, 1924 in Flint, Michigan.
  • During World War II, Erma worked as a 'Rosie the Riveter' at an AC Spark Plug factory in Flint.
  • Erma married her husband Gene Madore on August 10, 1946.
  • Erma and Gene moved to Vancouver, Washington in 1991.
  • Erma passed away on March 13, 2026 at the age of 101.

The players

Lucille 'Erma' Christenson Madore

A longtime resident of Vancouver, Washington who lived to the age of 101, known for her love of music, family, and faith.

Francis Eugene 'Gene' Madore

Erma's husband of 73 years, who she met after he returned from serving as a fighter pilot in World War II.

Archie and Minnie Christenson

Erma's parents, who owned a small grocery store and gas station in rural Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“I love you”

— Erma Madore

What’s next

A Celebration of Life for Erma Madore will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026 at 2 p.m. at Glenwood Community Church in Vancouver, Washington.

The takeaway

Erma Madore's life story is a testament to the resilience, faith, and family values that defined the Greatest Generation. Despite facing hardship and adversity, she lived a full and meaningful life, leaving behind a large, grateful legacy in the Vancouver community.