JoAnn Magnuson

JoAnn Magnuson, 94, of Willmar, died Friday, February 20 at Copperleaf in Willmar. Her funeral service will be 11:00 am, Wednesday, February 25 at Willmar Assembly of God Church. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Mamrelund Lutheran Cemetery in rural Pennock. A livestream of the service can be found on the church's YouTube page. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Home. www.hafh.org

JoAnn Marilyn Magnuson was born on November 23, 1931, in rural Pennock to Joseph and Esther (Johanson) Holmgren. She was raised on a farm in Mamre Township, where she attended District 14N School before graduating from Willmar High School in 1948. In 1973, she earned her bachelor’s degree in education from St. Cloud State University.

On February 12, 1954, JoAnn married Donald Magnuson. Together they raised three children: Jerry, Jolene, and Jan, and made their home in Willmar. JoAnn began her teaching career in rural Kandiyohi County and later joined Willmar Public Schools, dedicating 20 years to education. She found great joy and fulfillment in her work as a teacher.

JoAnn was a faithful member of the Assembly of God Church in Willmar, JoAnn faithfully served in many roles, including Sunday school teacher, Vacation Bible School teacher, Women’s Bible Study leader, and member of the Women’s Ministry and Missions Committee. She also sang in the choir, played in the orchestra, and shared her musical talents on the organ and piano for many years. In addition, she volunteered at Rice Hospital and with 4-H. JoAnn treasured her family and friends and was deeply committed to investing in the lives of others.

She is survived by her daughters, Jolene (Scott) Swanson of Willmar and Jan (Mike) Johnson of Alexandria; her daughter-in-law, Nancy Magnuson; ten grandchildren: Jason (Kari), Krista (Dan), Katie (Brian), Jennie (Jay), Kelsey (Jordan), Alida, Torin, Luke (Christa), Lauren (Patrick), and Aaron; and fifteen great-grandchildren: Lane, Kendyl, Jase, Bryn, Reagan, Brecken, Lyndie, Maizie, Heatley, Elin, Burkley, Henrik, Jens, Louisa, and Finley; as well as her sister, Audrey Huisinga.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband, Donald; her son, Jerry; her parents, Joseph and Esther Holmgren; and her siblings, Marge Malkuch, Lorraine Johnson, Carolyn Holmgren, and Gordon Marker.

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