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MERVYN (MERV) MADILL
Born: Nov 30, 1948
Date of Passing: Oct 06, 2025
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryMERVYN (MERV) MADILL
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 and David (Stacey); in-laws Bill and Shelley; and many extended family members and 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).

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 11, 2025
Condolences & Memories (26 entries)
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It’s deeply saddening to hear of the passing of such a kind and thoughtful man. I had the pleasure of meeting him several times while Thea was studying at SGU, and every encounter left a lasting impression. Whether it was sharing pizza over dinner or simply talking on the beach in Grenada, his warmth and sincerity always shone through. He had a way of truly listening — of making you feel seen and heard. My heart goes out especially to his children, and to Thea, who adored her dad deeply. I can only imagine how hard this must be for her. May you all find comfort in the beautiful memories and love you shared, and may his gentle soul rest in eternal peace. Love always, Nakita and family - Posted by: Nakita Bolah ,John, Rommel and Ilya Ventour (Friends from Grenada) on: Oct 17, 2025
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We feel lucky to have gotten to know Merv in our neighborhood. He always stopped to talk to us and showered our dog Trixie with kisses. His passion for animals was truly evident and he always had an interesting story to share. We will miss seeing him rollerblade by. Our sincerest condolences go out to his children and family. ❤️ - Posted by: Barry and Angie Yakiwchuk (Friends and neighbours) on: Oct 15, 2025
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Dear Caroline and family Our deepest and sincere sympathy on your loss I had the pleasure of meeting and becoming a client of Merv in the late nineties. I worked with his sister Caroline at Kindersley Transport. She in Saskatoon and I in Winnipeg. She mentioned to me that her brother was a vet I started taking my pets to Merv and was totally amazed with his knowledge caring and compassion for both my family and my fur babies We always had good stories to tell each other A soft spoken kind gentle man with a heart of gold His commitment was unmeasurable and I have yet to find another vet that can fill his shoes and doubt I ever will May all your precious memories be a comfort to you at this most difficult time. Heaven has truly gained another shining star Gloria Pongracz and family - Posted by: Gloria Pongracz (Former client) on: Oct 15, 2025
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Sorry to hear of Dr Madill’s passing. He was our vet for over 30 years.he was very kind. Always looked forward to our chats when we saw hi. Condolences to the family . - Posted by: Angelina Di Santo (Our vet for many years) on: Oct 15, 2025
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Dr. Madill started helping to care for our dog forty years ago and I have never forgotten the compassion he showed to our dog and to us. He was one of the kindest human beings I have ever met in my life. - Posted by: Dallas Parker (He was our dog's vet) on: Oct 14, 2025
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Dear, dear Merv! How greatly you will be missed by all who knew you. You took care of all my fur babies from the very beginning of your practice. You cared for all of them like they were your own and so special. When one of my little pugs was soo sick, you gave me your cell number and said, never hesitate to call! That day came, you said I will meet you at the clinic (it was 0700) and allowed me to be at the back of the clinic, close to my fur baby as you and the team tended to her care. You were a friend, someone I trusted beyond a doubt and such a kind and beautiful human to all. My deepest condolences to your children and family. Time to rest my friend! - Posted by: Aynsley Ward (Former client) on: Oct 13, 2025
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I lived very close to Corydon Animal Clinic back in the day and we took all our cats and dogs there even when we moved out of the area and I became an adult I used to take my cat and dog. I have lots of fond memories taking my cat to see Dr. Madill. I was only 12 at the time but he would pick up my cat and kiss her head and lips and I melted because this person loved my cat as much as I did. As I read the tributes I smiled as it brings back so many memories of how he treated our pets. He always made you feel important and your voice mattered. He took the time to listen if there were any concerns with your pet. He was a gentle and kind soul that will be missed. My deepest sympathies to his children and family. - Posted by: Jo-Ann Scott (Former client) on: Oct 13, 2025
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Deepest condolences to Merv’s family and close friends. I worked at Corydon from 98’-2000 as a newbie vet tech. I will always remember his patience and kindness for clients and staff. His above and beyond compassion for people left a huge impression on me. One memory that really sticks out is when dealing with an angry cat his ability to “Mervmerize” the cat with his calm demeanor and was able to draw a blood sample without anyone even holding it. Truly a cat whisperer. - Posted by: Tammi James (Colleague) on: Oct 12, 2025
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Condolences to Dr Madill’s family and loved ones. Merv was the vet extraordinaire for my two “girls” many years ago. He knew which one to cuddle and which one needed to chase him around the examining room (preferably biting his finger) before he could examine them. Every time we’d walk past the Corydon Clinic, the girls would pull me toward the door – even when we didn’t have an appointment. They loved going to see Merv. When I was offered a job in Australia, it was Merv who I called from Melbourne (not my family!). His opinion on moving my girls to the other side of the world was the deciding factor on whether or not I accepted the job. With his support, my old girls had a lovely retirement in Australia. I will always remember Merv’s love and compassion for my wild girls, the effort he put into treating them, and the twinkle in his eye after my girl would try to bite him. With gratitude and sadness. - Posted by: Angela Smith (Former client) on: Oct 12, 2025
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I had the honour of playing softball with Merv. Not only was he a great fielder on the diamond but he also opened his home to us for the windup for many years. Always such a great guy who had stories to tell and took interest in what was happening in the lives of those around him. He was so proud of his kids. We were really hoping he would be shagging flies in centre field with us next year. However, he’s been called to the Big League and he’ll be playing catch with St. Peter at The Pearly Gate for sure. My deepest condolences to his family. He was a beaut and will be dearly missed. - Posted by: Keith Fowke (Baseball teammate) on: Oct 11, 2025
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Dr Madill was an outstanding veterinarian who helped both animal patients and their owners. I know that we could not have managed many years of dog caretaking without Merv’s generous giving of his expertise. Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. - Posted by: J.A.Patersom (Clinic client (Dog Owner)) on: Oct 11, 2025
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My deepest condolences to the family. It is a great loss, as Merv was a caring person both towards people and the animals he loved. I have yet to see another Vet go down on the floor to be on the same level as the dog to get kisses and give kisses. Merv was the vet for over 35 years for our family. What other Vet would see a dog in his home on a Saturday, put him on the kitchen counter so that he could get a better look at the dogs eye. It was an honour to have such a caring person look after our dogs for all those years. May all the good memories be held close to your heart, as the years go by and you remember your father. - Posted by: Carole (Client and friend) on: Oct 11, 2025
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My deepest condolences to Merv's family. He was a very special person for sure. I first met Merv when he came to Winnipeg and he was the best at looking after our pets. We became friends and enjoyed many lunches talking about sports and other things. My time in Saskatchewan gained my understanding of his Rider commitment as it is very contagious. As my career took me to other cities over it slowed our contact. But when in Winnipeg I would always stop at the Clinic to say hi to Merv. He was always so busy but always took time to do a quick catch up. I visited Foam Lake once to have my boat serviced and tried to contact Merv's sister but she was away. I will always remember his smile and his warm personality. When he first came to the Clinic we used to tease him that we were pretty sure some ladies were borrowing pets to come in to see the handsome young Vet!!! He always blushed and laughed. He will be greatly missed. I wished we could have done some fishing together. Heaven gained a good one again for sure. Dan Tooth Langley BC - Posted by: Dan Tooth (Friend) on: Oct 11, 2025
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Merv I was privileged to know you as a friend and colleague. You will be truly missed not only to your family but also to your friends and many clients. You were an amazing vet. Fondest memories were when you Elmer and I flew down to Atlanta for a vet conference- good memories were had by all. And then the trip you and i took to the CVMA in Regina when we stopped at Foam Lake and i had the privilege to meet all your family. You were special RIP my friend Gord Goodridge - Posted by: Gordon Goodridge (Friend/colleague) on: Oct 11, 2025
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I spent a month in hospital with Merv last year. We formed a great friendship that we were both looking forward to expand on. He was a great guy and I will miss him. RIP Merv - Posted by: Art Chipman (Friend) on: Oct 11, 2025
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Merv Madill was an exceptional human being. He certainly chose his profession well. We've been taking our pets to him since the early 90's. He was always so accommodating and even came to our home on his day off to give our Mac a peaceful passing. His calm, reassuring manner was a truly a gift that many owners and pets benefited from over the years. Our sincere sympathy to the family. He was a treasure. With sadness, Wendy Thurston-Werry & Bill Werry. - Posted by: Wendy Thurston-Werry & Bill Werry (clients) on: Oct 11, 2025
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I was so sorry to hear about Merv's illness and passing. I had a great deal of respect and affection for him. When I graduated from WCVM in 1990 and moved to Winnipeg, he was one of the first veterinarians to welcome me. I had dropped off a resume at Corydon and while they didn't have any openings, he invited me in for a chat. He was so warm and kind and encouraging. A few months later he found some shifts for me at the emergency clinic they ran at the time. You have my heartfelt condolences. This will be a painful loss to bear. - Posted by: Philipp Schott (colleague) on: Oct 11, 2025
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I am so so sorry for the loss of such a kind warm gentle man. I crossed paths with Dr Madill only a few times when visiting my daughter Katie who worked along side him as a vet tech. Although it was only a few times, his love for the people he worked with, his love for animals, and his genuine interest in meeting me was apparent right away. He had such a warm kind smile. Katie shared many stories of working with Dr Madill and cared for him deeply. He will be thought of and missed long into the days ahead. Sending prayers to you and yours. ❤️ Laurie Magotiaux - Posted by: Laurie Magotiaux (Katie’s mom) on: Oct 11, 2025
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Such a wonderful man and an incredible veterinarian I was so grateful to have him as a caretaker to both my beloved dogs, a special man for sure.❤️ - Posted by: Scott Nolan (Client) on: Oct 11, 2025
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I am very saddened to see this. We were clients at Corydon Vet for many years with our dog and cats, and I was always so touched by the compassion, warmth, and love that Merv had for each fur baby. He treated each one of them as though they were his very own, and would offer such heartfelt advice and consolation. One could never leave the clinic without feeling the utmost of trust in Merv's competence. Merv was a true gentleman, a wonderful human being, and definitely lived life to the fullest. His loss is too early, and I offer my sincere condolences to his children, family, and friends. May his memory be a blessing.C. - Posted by: Enid Barnes (former client) on: Oct 11, 2025
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I met Merv at my neighbour Bill's backyard "bonfires" in Crescent wood. Over the years we shared many a glass of wine. All of the comments in obit are so true about Merv. His only failing - he was maybe too kind and caring and some would take advantage. RIP Merv, can't believe you are gone. - Posted by: Donna (friend) on: Oct 11, 2025
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Merv was our neighbor for 27 years and in that time we had lots of walks up and down our road, solving the issues of the day and bringing hope and encouragement while he worked through his health challenges. He loved his children deeply and provided them with life skills that molded them into the caring people they are. In the end they were there for their Dad with, love, care and Compassion. Merv’s passing is a profound loss to all who knew him and we will miss him but he will always walk beside me on the road in all the seasons. - Posted by: Jim&Louise Grapentine (Friend) on: Oct 11, 2025
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Even though I knew it was coming, I am saddened by Merv’s passing. I have known Merv since he began his career at Corydon Animal Hospital and his knowledge was unsurpassed. I knew if I had questions he was there with answers. As mentioned in his obituary, he was very compassionate and cared for his patients with love. He spoke lovingly about his children and his furry family members. He will be missed and remembered by all those whose lives he touched. RIP my friend. - Posted by: Cathy Belanger (Client mom and friend) on: Oct 11, 2025
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We were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your father. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredible and difficult time. - Posted by: Laurel and Brent Lyon (friend) on: Oct 11, 2025
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We are so sorry for your loss! Merv was our pets’ vet (and favourite person to visit) for over 40 years. He was truly unique! He loved each animal, and they knew it. He was dedicated and thorough; being a vet was not a job to Merv, it was his calling. One year we almost lost our dog to blastomycosis while we were at the Lake of the Woods. We called Merv (we had his cell number) and rushed our Cody back to Winnipeg to see him on the Monday of a long weekend. Merv would always be there when we needed him. We have yet to find another vet who we trust like we trusted Merv. - Posted by: Christine & Phil Rogers (Clients) on: Oct 11, 2025
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We still can’t believe you are gone. We will always love you. R.I.P. Merv ❤️ - Posted by: Shelley Pastrick (Sister-in-Law) on: Oct 11, 2025

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