Madeline Ann McPherson

Madeline Crandall McPherson was born in Mercy Hospital, San Diego on July 16, 1947, the first-born child of Marjorie and Larry Crandall, both San Diego High School graduates. With large brown eyes and same-colored curly hair, Madeline was a tall, attractive child that grew to become an even more attractive woman with exceptional artistic talent.

Madeline’s artistic talents were revealed very early. She created detailed, Michaelangelo-style pencil drawings by age ten - a Moses on the Mount - that amazed her family. She clearly saw things differently than others, including details that most didn’t see. She saw things in reflection, as from a smooth pool, that mainstream teachers called “backwards.” Those with dyslexia are known to have stronger memories, so Madeline was able to accurately draw things from memory that were beyond the conception of many.

Madeline knew what she saw and expressed it in amazing artwork. She grew to become a beautiful artist capable of reflecting the world around her, in deep and colorful ways. She also became a voracious, reader who loved her books.

In High School Norman Ream was Madeline’s sweetheart who not only adored her, he also took care of our entire family establishing unique relationships with each and every one of us. Norman left us to serve in the Vietnam Nam war as a handler with scout dogs walking point for the infantry. Norman and his Dog Cherokee were often in the position of first line of fire with a bounty on their heads. Over the years Norman has continued to be a pillar of strength and support to Madeline, myself and our entire family.

Professionally, Madeline joined her father into the restaurant business here in San Diego. While working at The Atlantis restaurant Madeline met, fell in love and married Robert Newell, the restaurant manager. In 1970, Madeline and Robert moved to Vail, CO where she worked at the renowned Gorsuchs clothing and ski wear sporting goods store.

After a few years Madeline returned to San Diego where she was hired as the assistant to the General Manager of Stanley Andrews Sporting Goods store in Downtown San Diego. Madeline was an outdoor enthusiast and with the help of Arthur Miller gained incredible knowledge, expertise, and respect for firearms, fishing, and hunting.

Madeline returned to Los Angeles to work at her father's new restaurant Alexander's Brass Rib. There she met her second husband Don McPherson, an excellent chef who later served as Clint Eastwood's Executive Chef at Tehama and The Mission Inn in Carmel, CA.

Madeline moved on to work at Bullock's Whilshire as their restaurant manager and head planner for catering. Madeline designed, planned and produced a wonderful luncheon with Princess Diana as her special guest.

Then Madeline's trajectory found her calling in helping children, famillies and the less fortunate by working for non profits in Los Angeles and Long Beach. Later Madeline returned to San Diego where she volunteered at God's Extended Hand and started Love on the Streets Street Ministry where she walked the streets offering love and support to the homeless.

Madeline was a beautiful hard working woman who evolved naturally in her calling to make herself and others better people. A true visionary and proponent of Love.

Madeline is survived by her sister Rosalind Marinou, brother Chip Crandall and his wife Patti, and nephew Nick his wife Diana and sons Jaxson and Austin, nieces Torre and Stephanie, nephew Taylor and wife Eunjie, and sister Alicia Barry, husband Randy and nephews Jacks and Tim.

A funeral service for Madeline will be held Thursday, February 20, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Cypress View Mausoleum, Mortuary and Crematory, 3953 Imperial Ave, San Diego, CA 92113, followed by a graveside service Thursday February 20, 2025 at 12:00PM at Cypress View Mausoleum, Mortuary and Crematory, 3953 Imperial Ave, San Diego, CA 92113. Luncheon gathering at the Berry Residence, 4181 Dewes Way, San Diego, CA 92117 after service.