Alvin Russell (RUSS) Magnusson1930- 2017A rare and beautiful soul has left this world and our hearts are forever broken. Russ was the last remaining child of loving Icelandic parents Johanna S. (Jonsson) and Leifur C. Magnusson I. Most loving brother to Oddny (Audrey), Joan, Leifur and Carole. Caring Brother-in-law to the late Lou Sans, late Billy Fazio, late Joe Vlamings, late Robert Howard, Emily Powell, Renee Wheldon, Marge Demaree, Herman and late Delbert Weaver. Devoted and loving father of Chris Howard Magnusson. Loving Uncle to numerous nieces and nephews and treasured friend of many. He leaves the love of his life and wife of 61 years June Weaver (from "The Hill") and his treasured and adored son, Chris, the sunshine of his life.
Born in Chicago, raised in Winnipeg, Canada till age of 8 when family moved to San Francisco, finally settling on "The Hill" (Bernal Heights). He attended Excelsior, Monroe, and Paul Revere Grammar Schools, Denman Jr. High and Balboa High, Class of '48. He served in the U.S. Navy.
He enjoyed playing all sports and was a natural athlete. As a youngster in 1944 his pitching won the San Francisco Junior Division Softball Championship for the Bernal Heights Rec and in 1945 their 10s basketball medal with his skillful playing. He bowled in leagues and was a high scorer. Russ took up golf at age 25 and loved the challenge of the game. He began at S.F. Harding Park, then played many years at Sharp Park (Men's Rockaway Club) and then Crystal Springs. In 1964 he won the San Francisco Amateur Golf Championship-Sportsman Flight. Over the years he had 3 hole-in-ones and played to a 4 handicap and enjoyed the game into his early 80's.
Russ had a warm loving nature. An intelligent, strong, handsome man yet with the kindest of hearts, not only to family and friends but any stranger or animal in need. His honesty, integrity and generosity were unmatched. A real gentleman of the old school and truly one of a kind. Not a day will pass that we will not think of him and miss him.
Member of The Icelandic Assoc. of No. Calif. Retired member of Teamsters Union Local 85. Owner and operator of his own truck line the last several years before he retired.
Private cremation services were held at Cypress Lawn, his final resting place. A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date. The family wishes to thank the marvelous staff from Sutter Care at Home and Hospice. Donations in Russ' memory can be made to: Sutter Care at Home, Attn: Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 160045, Sacramento, CA 95816