Lew Madley, Author of “Rugby Football in British Columbia 1876-1989” Passes at Age 102
If anyone had been to the James Bay clubhouse post match over the last several decades they likely met Lew Madley. He was President of the club for a period in the 80s but it’s his writing that gained him further recognition. He wrote a book on the history of the James Bay Athletic Association; his work on the history of BC Rugby in his book “Rugby Football in British Columbia 1876-1989” has become a well used reference on my book shelf.
There’s a memorial service followed by a reception at the JBAA clubhouse on Wednesday, July 31st.
After a full life of 102 years, Lew passed away peacefully at Royal Jubilee Hospital on July 16, 2024 with trusted friends by his side. Predeceased by his parents Lewis and Ethel (née Ford), brother Grenville, sister Thelma Baker and long-time friend Arthur Wiebe. In Wales, Lew is survived by nephews Peter Madley and Andrew Baker, nieces Gillian Powell, Carolyn Baker and Vivienne Sandercott, and many grand-nephews and nieces. Locally, he will be missed by Vivian Wiebe and other close friends.
A proud Welsh Canadian, Lew was born on November 16, 1921 into a loving family in Grangetown, Cardiff. As a boy he developed a passion for rugby, football (soccer), English studies and politics, often sneaking a read of his Father’s newspapers by 8 years old. Lew’s working life began during the Depression when he delivered newspapers on roller skates to contribute to the family income. He later worked on the Cardiff docks as a carpenter’s apprentice. By the age of 19, World War II was underway, and he enlisted in the Royal Air Force after the first Blitz attack hit his Grangetown neighbourhood. Lew’s service as ground crew on Spitfire Sqn 225 took him to North Africa, Italy, France and Austria. He was a proud veteran and attended Remembrance Day Services at the BC Legislature Cenotaph up until he was 99 years old.
After the war, Lew’s desire to explore new opportunities brought him to Vancouver, BC in 1952 and then north to Crescent Spur where he worked in the lumber industry, developed business and communications skills, and began his involvement in political affairs. In 1963 Lew returned to Vancouver as Executive Director for the Social Credit Party. In 1965 BC Department of Highways brought him to Victoria where his administrative and communication skills contributed to many high-level projects until retiring in 1987. Lew authored 6 books during retirement including James Bay Athletic Association: The first 100 years where he had served as club President 1980-81. He was a great supporter of Rugby Canada travelling with the National team overseas on many occasions. Lew never forgot the kindness and “leg ups” he received upon arriving in Canada and spent the rest of his life passing them forward to many.
Lew will be buried privately at Royal Oak Burial Park.
A memorial service will take place in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens Funeral Home, 4665 Falaise Drive, on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 11am followed by a reception at James Bay Athletic Club, 205 Simcoe Street, Victoria.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to Kid Sport and/or World Vision would continue Lew’s support for youth. Condolences may be offered below.