Charles “Chuck” Magnuson
Charles “Chuck” Magnuson, age 72, of rural New London, died Sunday, May 31, at his home.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 11, at Oak Hill Cemetery in New London. Military Honors will be provided by Robert Ihlang American Legion Post 537 of New London. Memorials are preferred to your local fire department or a service dog organization. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar, www.hafh.org.
Charles Donavon Magnuson was born February 6, 1948, in Willmar, Minnesota, the son of C.W. and Beatrice (Levitz) Magnuson. He grew up in Willmar on the north side. His family moved to New London when he was in his teens and he attended New London-Spicer High School, graduating in 1966. After graduation he was drafted into the US Army where he served in Vietnam. Chuck was in the 25th Infantry Division 3/4 Cavalry. During combat in the Tet Offensive campaign surprise attack, he was wounded. He received the Commendation Medal with the V device for valor, the Purple Heart along with numerous other awards. After his service Chuck attended Willmar Community College.
On December 14, 1969, Chuck married Marilyn Gandrud and they made their home in rural New London. Chuck worked as a carpenter and for the US Postal Service in Willmar for 26 years, and also served as the union steward. He retired from the Postal Service in 2009. Chuck also was an innkeeper and owned and operated the Atypical Inn in New London.
Chuck was a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church in New London, where he taught Sunday School and worked with the youth. Chuck had a sled team of Malamutes and Huskies of which were all adopted. At one point caring for and running 13 dogs. He also enjoyed raising, breeding, and showing pigeons. He loved outdoor activities, and enjoyed biking, cross country skiing, kayaking, ice skating, and fishing. Chuck was at home hanging out in the woods or in his wood shop.
He is survived by his wife: Marilyn of New London; three children: Christian Magnuson of Spicer, Stephanie Magnuson Gould (fiancé Jason) of Minneapolis, and Jessica (Peter) Mateja of San Jose, CA; seven grandchildren: Nic (Whit), Luke (fiancé Gretchen), James, Sawyer Magnuson, Chas, Sullivan Gould, and Amelie Mateja; and two great-grandchildren: Everette and Aria Magnuson. Also surviving are a brother: John (Mavis) Magnuson of Holdingford; a brother-in-law: Chuck Whisenant; a sister-in-law: Bev (Magnuson) Jensen, several nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends. Chuck had an especially close relationship with brother-in-law Carey John (Terri Bonfiglia) Koch and his nephew Rob (and Kim) Gandrud.
He was preceded in death by his parents: C.W. and Beatrice Magnuson; a son-in-law: Robert Gould; a brother: Gary Magnuson; a sister: Kay (Chuck) Whisenant; a brother-in-law: Scott Gandrud; and two nephews: Scott Magnuson and Jeff Magnuson.