In loving memory of
William “Bill” Duval Madden

March 21, 1957 - September 20, 2022

On June 27, 2022 our dear friend Bill experienced the first of a series of strokes - dramatic clues to what a few weeks later was determined to be Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer that had spread throughout his liver and bones. Bill had virtually no symptoms or risk factors aside from a DVT (deep vein thrombosis), diagnosed one month prior, which had been attributed to time he’d recently spent on a few cross-country flights.

Filled with a passion for adventure and a deep love of nature, Bill was always ready to get out on the river or hit the trails. An avid cyclist, fisherman, and stand-up paddler, as well as longtime surfer and windsurfer, Bill particularly enjoyed getting outside in the Pacific Northwest, where he made his home, and in Florida, where he was born and raised. His zest for life included connecting with each and every person he met. Warm, gregarious, and engaged, Bill made a point of ensuring everyone in his orbit knew that they were loved and cared for - especially his children: Bryce (27), Taylor (25) and Leah (December, 18 1996-February 25, 2022).

On September 20, 2022, Bill lost his 2 1/2 month battle with pancreatic cancer - his love and laughter left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Read Bill’s full obituary HERE.

More than 62,000 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2022; more than 49,830 Americans will die from pancreatic cancer this year (per the American Cancer Society). The survival rate of those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer is currently 11% - the lowest of all major cancers, although up from 7% in 2021. Funding, research and awareness is urgently needed to further improve patient outcomes. Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) has set an ambitious goal to see the five-year survival rate increase by 20% by 2030. Read more about how they intend to improve early detection and treatment options HERE.

I would like to support PanCAN’s mission by auctioning this original artwork, with 100% of the proceeds going to them (paid directly to them by the auction winner in memory of Bill Madden - so fully tax-deductible). I will personally deliver the artwork to any location in the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area, or pay for UPS Ground shipping to any location in the continental USA. The auction will run through Monday, October 17th at 5pm - current bids can be viewed at the button below. The artwork will be on display in the main entrance lobby of the Ford Building and will be viewable there during my Portland Open Studio hours, during the First Friday Grand Reopening of The Ford Gallery (Friday, October 7th from 5-8pm), or by appointment. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions - email me by clicking HERE.

Rest [2022]
36”x36” mixed media on 1 5/8” cradled birch panel, signed and dated on the back - UV sealed and ready to hang

This large mixed media painting shimmers with colors that recall the sea and sky during sunset on the Gulf Coast of Florida, one of Bill’s favorite places in the world. The heavily textured plaster base was overlaid by multiple layers of acrylic paint and plaster, with multiple glazings and sandings in between. The resulting distressed and subdued chromatic surface is offset by vivid color blocks of sun yellow and sea blue-green on the exposed wood edges, which are otherwise whitewashed - a nod to Bill’s ever-present vibrant personality which is immutable.

To see a video this piece in the making on Instagram please click HERE.

The auction has now ended, but you can still donate to PanCAN in Bill’s name by clicking the button below. Please feel free to donate any amount - every dollar you give funds life-changing programs and services for patients and their families.