Obituaries

MERVYN (MERV) MADILL
November 30, 1948 – October 6, 2025

It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Merv Madill. Merv was born in Foam Lake, Saskatchewan, son of Christine Duckham and Raymond Madill. He was the oldest of his five siblings, and notably, one of three sets of twins his mother would have.

As a young boy, Merv’s deep love and respect for all animals grew into a passionate desire to become a veterinarian. After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Saskatchewan’s Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 1972, he moved to Winnipeg, where he embarked on a career spanning over 50 years at Corydon Animal Hospital under the mentorship of Dr. Frank Kelleher. Merv later became co-owner, and throughout his decades of practice, he graciously imparted his wisdom to veterinarians beginning their careers, including his daughter, Thea. The loving and gentle manner in which he cared for his furry patients was incomparable, as was the kind and reassuring rapport he shared with clients. Both knew they were in the hands of someone special who would do everything possible to make things well again.

Merv possessed an enduring and profound love for his children, Thea and Desmond, and was infinitely proud of the people they became and of their accomplishments. Family was always of utmost importance to him, and he made every effort to spend time with his siblings, in-laws, and extended family. His warmth and kindness shone through in every interaction. To those who had the privilege of knowing him, Merv was someone who could always be counted on to contribute a thoughtful, engaging conversation—always with tact, grace, and genuine interest. He will be remembered by friends and colleagues as loyal, generous with his time and knowledge, and dedicated to excellence in all that he did.

Merv loved life and made the most of every moment. One of his favourite hobbies was fishing, a pastime he pursued with both family and friends whenever possible. His remarkable ability to locate and catch fish was only surpassed by his legendary skill at filleting—something he took great pleasure in teaching to others. Everyone who had the opportunity to join him on a fishing trip surely has a story to tell.

He also developed a lifelong passion for aviation and became a licensed small aircraft pilot. Flying brought him immense joy and peace; he approached each flight with focus, precision, and a commitment to being the very best he could be.

An avid athlete, Merv played slo-pitch softball until the age of 72 and would have kept playing if his health had allowed. The camaraderie and friendships built on the field meant the world to him. In his younger years, he earned the nickname “The Gazelle”—a nod to his speed and agility in left field, where few balls ever touched the grass.

A proud Saskatchewan Roughriders fan, Merv bled Rider green and cheered on his team with passion and zeal. He took great pleasure in attending games at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, celebrating every Riders touchdown—especially those scored against the Bombers—with enthusiastic high-fives all around.

Merv had many interests, from tinkering with his beloved Stihl tools to enjoying backyard fires, long walks with his dog Rosa, and time spent outdoors. He sought out every opportunity to learn, sharing his knowledge and intellect in ways that were thoughtful, constructive, and kind. His attention to detail and meticulous record keeping were reflections of a mind that was as curious as it was capable.

Above all, Merv will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the many memories that will forever warm the hearts of all who knew him.

He leaves to mourn his children Thea and Desmond; his twin sister Jane (Garry); siblings Angie, Suse (Larry), Caroline & David (Stacey); in-laws Bill & Shelley; and many extended family members & friends. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know him.

At Merv’s request, there will be no funeral service. The family requests that in lieu of gifts, donations may be made to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s ‘Alumni Trust Fund’ in Merv’s memory https://donate.usask.ca/online/wcvm.php