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Dario 'Dean' Madrid, 55

Coeur d'Alene Press | UPDATED 3 days AGO
| March 17, 2026 1:00 AM

Dario “Dean” Madrid, 55, passed away peacefully March 6, 2026, after a sudden diagnosis of leukemia. Dean was born Oct. 10, 1970, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to Felix V. Madrid and Shirley (Payton) Madrid. He was raised in Kellogg, Idaho (Elizabeth Park), where he grew up surrounded by family, friends and the close-knit community he loved.

Dean attended Elk Creek Elementary, Silver King School and Kellogg Junior and Senior High School, graduating with the Class of 1988. During his youth, he attended the American Lutheran Church in Kellogg. Growing up, Dean loved fishing with his dad, playing hacky sack, hanging with his friends and enjoying life.

Dean built a strong work ethic early in life. Before beginning his long career in the automotive industry, he worked for Lifetime Roofing and Siding. In his 20s, Dean survived a life-changing accident when he fell from the “Silver Bridge” onto the rocks below. He lived the next 30 years with a fractured back supported by two metal rods, facing life with strength, resilience and determination.

For nearly 20 years, Dean worked at Dave Smith Motors in Coeur d’Alene, where he served most recently as Parts Manager. Prior to that, he worked at J&D Stereo, where he became well known for his custom stereo and audio installations. In the early 1990s, it was common for people to hear Dean’s truck long before they saw it, earning him the nickname “Boom Boom” Madrid. Dean had a deep love for music and rarely missed a chance to see his favorite band, Motley Crue, attending their concerts whenever he could.

In his younger years, Dean loved skateboarding and later enjoyed snowboarding with family and friends. He also had a special place in his heart for his dogs, especially those who went before him, Roach and Dozer.

One of the greatest joys of Dean’s life began in March of 1998 when he had his first date with Sara Hawks. The rest, as they say, is history. Dean and Sara were married April 14, 2001, sharing a deep, true and lasting love. Dean loved being a father to Chris and Bryson, as well as the years of supporting their wrestling activities and cheering them on. Dean and Sara were looking forward to celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary this year.

Dean was a loving husband, proud stepfather, devoted grandfather, wonderful brother and loyal friend. He will be remembered for his strength, humor, love of music and the deep care he had for the people in his life.

Dean is survived by his loving wife, Sara Madrid; stepson Chris Vergobbi; beloved grandsons Olyver and Ace; sister Elena Madrid; nephew Jordan Nelson; brothers Richard and Robert Fausett; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Felix and Shirley Madrid; his siblings, Ronnie, Ted, Lonnie and Bill Fausett; and his beloved stepson, Bryson Vergobbi.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Kellogg EMS and ambulance and fire crew support for their compassionate care and assistance.

A celebration of Dean’s life will be held for family, friends and co-workers at a later date. More information to come.

Donations in Dean’s name may be made to Hospice of North Idaho.

Memories of Dean and messages of condolence may be shared online with his family at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services of the Silver Valley is caring for the Madrid family.

    Madrid