William Craig Magnuson was born on July 22, 1945, in Granite Falls, to Grant and Anna (West) Magnuson. He grew up in Cottonwood and graduated from Cottonwood High School. After attending St. Cloud State University for a few years, Bill moved back to Cottonwood. On October 22, 1966, he was united in marriage to Linda Norland at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cottonwood. Bill worked as a mudder and painter. After working for Dave Idso for a time, he began his own business: Bill Magnuson Painting. He enjoyed his work and his radio was always tuned to 98.7 out of Pipestone so he could listen to Mylan and Bill play his beloved 60s rock and roll. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping. He also enjoyed gardening. Bill had a very kind heart and received great pleasure from sharing his produce with friends and family.
Bill died peacefully on Tuesday, July 16, 2013, surrounded by family at his new residence, the Golden Living Center, in Olivia. He is survived by his wife, Linda, of Cottonwood, daughter Maren Magnuson (and Scott Van Moer) of Cottonwood, daughter Wendy (and Jason) Fischer of Cottonwood, grandchildren Whitney, Kaitlin and Jordan, son Jay (and Heidi) Magnuson of Willmar, grandchildren Hunter and Hannah, brother Gary (and Ruth) Magnuson of Alexandria, brother-in-law Charles (and Gwen) Norland of Cottonwood, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.
