SUNSET, Utah, May 10, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) — Davis County’s Sunset City has announced the death of Mayor Howard Madsen.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Mayor Madsen,” says a city statement posted online and also attached to the glass front windows of the city building.
“Due to this unexpected tragedy our office will be closed until Monday, May 13th, where we will resume normal business hours 9 a.m.-5 p.m.”
The city statement did not disclose details about the mayor’s death, which was reported Thursday and happened earlier that day, according to reports. The sign advised city residents how to make court or utility payments online while the city offices are closed.
“Thank you for your understanding in this difficult time,” the message says. Sunset is a small town with a reputation for being close knit. Located between Interstate 15 and the Great Salt Lake, it has a population of about 5,500 people.
As the word of Madsen’s death began to spread friends and associates started sharing initial tributes.
Brandon Stanger, Mayor of Clinton (23,500 population) shared thoughts.
“I am saddened today with news that a friend and colleague passed away,” Stanger posted. “Sunset City is our neighbor to the east. Mayor Howard Madsen passed away today.
“He and I had the opportunity to carpool to many meetings together. I will miss our talks and his advice on those drives. I thank him for being a mentor to me. I also would like to thank his family for sharing him with the community for decades as a Utah Highway Patrol officer and as an elected official. I’ll miss you and may God bless you till we meet again.”
Utah State Representative Karen Peterson, District 13, praised Madsen for his public service.
“He had the heart of a public servant, from his time as Mayor of Coalville, then Mayor of Sunset, to his years working on the Highway Patrol,” Peterson wrote. “He was so dedicated to establishing the Sunset Veterans Park to honor those who had served. I am glad he saw it completed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and Sunset City.”
Gephardt Daily will have more information on Madsen’s death and the Sunset City government’s plans moving forward as the story develops.
