M adeline Sophie Sagebiel of Fredericksburg passed away on July 9, 2025 at the age of 82. She was born in Gillespie County to Otto William and Bessie Alberthal Friedrich January 14, 1943. Madeline married the love of her life Joe Alfred Sagebiel November 24, 1962.

Madeline attended Pecan Creek School for her elementary education and graduated from Fredericksburg High School in 1961. While in high school Madeline was a cheerleader, played Varsity Basketball and was also active in Future Business Leaders of America. After graduating Madeline attended business college in Kerrville which she later put to good use. Joe was a student at Texas A&M when they married and Madeline spent the next six years working so he could finish his degree and complete his advanced degrees at the University of Missouri. Madeline worked as a secretary at both TAMU and MU. The next 10 years she worked as an Executive Secretary of the Graduate School at Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois where Joe had taken a position. In 1980 he accepted a position at West Texas State University in Canyon, Texas where Madeline was Assistant to the Dean of the Graduate School. She was a dedicated, knowledgeable, hard worker who was loved and respected by all of her co-workers and the graduate students she served. In 1992 Madeline returned to their Fredericksburg ranch and began ranching full time.

Madeline was a faithful and loving caregiver to her and Joe's family and friends over the years. She was an excellent cook, baker and she took great pride in putting up jams, jellies, fruits and vegetables from her garden each year.  Madeline had many hobbies – she loved needlework and if you were lucky enough to receive one as a gift it was an instant keepsake. Another of her loves were her orphan baby calves, chickens and many beloved dogs and cats that were all considered members of their family.  While at Illinois State University and West Texas State University Madeline became a second mother to many of the out-of-town students often cooking holiday dinners for those not able to make it home.

She was preceded in death by her parents Otto and Bessie Friedrich, and brothers Nolan and Elton Friedrich.

Madeline is survived by her loving husband of 62 years Joe Sagebiel and her beloved Yorkshire Terrier Willie, as well as many relatives and dear friends.

Thank you to the staff of Knopp's Nursing and Rehabilitation Center who provided such loving care for Madeline over thepast months. Special thanks to the Pastors at Bethany Lutheran Church, as well as the Prayer Chain. Also, the help of special friends Patti Adams and Mary Beth Farris is greatly appreciated.

The funeral service will be Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Bethany Lutheran Church with visitation at  1:00 PM, service at 2:00 PM and reception to follow at 3:00 PM. Arrangements under the direction of Fredericksburg Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cal Farley's Boys Ranch, Amarillo, Texas or the charity of your choice.