Verna J. Magnuson

Verna J. Magnuson, 92, Gordon, WI resident, died peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, January 16, 2021 in Gordon, WI. Verna was born on December 25, 1928 in Eagle River, WI to Vernon and Julia (Corbin) Hughes.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Herb, the love of her life, after just twenty-nine days of being apart. Herb will be singing “You Are My Sunshine my only sunshine. You make me happy when skies are gray. You’ll never know dear how much I love you. Please bring my sunshine back to me.” Verna’s heart was broken. They were truly soul mates and partners for life. Verna decided not to fight any medical battles and instead embraced her impending journey home to join Herb.

Verna’s work history included food demos, Lloyd’s Soup and Sandwiches, co-owner of Magnuson’s 66 Service Station, South Superior, WI, Weight Watchers, Van Vleck-Clemens-Painter and did odd jobs with her sister, Dorothy. She also worked at Hawkins Laundry, was a cook at her brother-in-law, Warren Magnuson’s Gold Mine in Gaines Creek, Alaska. No one went hungry when they stopped by to visit. (just like her mother did). Verna was an excellent cook but she was known for her “Cinnamon Rolls”. No one could make them any better!

She was a beautiful lady inside and out and was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. The family was blessed to have both of them in a place where they were comfortable and considered home.

Also, she is preceded in death by her parents, sisters Dorothy Visger and Hazel Johnson, and brothers Johnny and Harry Hughes.

Verna is survived by daughter, Gail (Jack) Kaarto, Gordon, WI; son, Kelly (Linn) Magnuson, Knapp, WI; five grandchildren, Richard (Cindy) Magnuson, Rosemont, MN, Jeremy (Kim) Magnuson, Deer River, MN, Carla (Justin Rock) Magnuson, Hibbing, MN; Kelly Michael (Crystal Brown) Magnuson, Foxboro, WI and Jason (Al Schombs) Nummi, San Diego, CA; twelve great-grandchildren, Loren, Nick, Jeremy, Colton, Chase, Tyler, Samantha, Amber, Skyler, Cassie, Stephen and Cadance; four great great-grandchildren, Melody, Owen, Tessa and Keegan; brothers, Glen (Janice) Hughes, Dairyland, WI, Bob (Rita) Hughes, Shafer, MN and Ed (Annette) Hughes, Forest Lake, MN and several nieces, nephews and extended family.

A Celebration of Life and Legacy will be held in the spring at a time that coincides with Herb and Verna’s 75 ^th wedding anniversary. Should friends desire, condolences for Verna may be sent to 14039 S. Eau Claire Acres Cr, Gordon, WI  54838

The Downs-LeSage Funeral Home, 1304 Hammond Avenue, Superior is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave an online condolence or to sign the guestbook, please visit www.downs-lesage.com .

UPDATE:

A Celebration of Life and Legacy will be held for Herb and Verna at 12:00 PM on Saturday, May 22, 2021 at the family home, 14039 S. Eau Claire Acres Circle in Gordon, WI. A potluck will be offered and meat will be provided. Should friends desire, please bring a dish to share. Military Honors will be accorded by the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post #435 Honor Guard.