Francis Martin Magnuson

Francis Martin Magnuson, age 81, of Gladstone, MI passed away on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at UP Health Systems Marquette with loved ones by his side.

Francis was born October 28, 1939 in Hancock, the son of Ferris and Edna (Karvonen) Magunson. He attended school in Baraga. After high school, Fran joined the National Guard and attended vocational school where he learned machining. He married his wife Nancy Jean (Martell), November 5, 1960 in L’anse. On August 2, 1961, they welcomed their only child, Renee.
Francis was a true entrepreneur at heart. He started his first business making gun stocks and later went on to establish Lakeside Machine, INC with his business partners. Fran was known as a fair and patient boss and was often seen walking through the machine shop. Francis had a passion for wood-working and was very meticulous with everything he created. From miniature grandfather clocks to rocking chairs for his grandchildren, Fran put his heart into every creation.
In his younger years, Fran and his wife, Nancy, were UP Champions in archery and enjoyed camping with friends, hunting for morels, and being outdoors. He spent his summers at his favorite place on Earth, the cottage on Ostrander Lake. He enjoyed sipping coffee on the deck, watching his grandchildren play on the beach, taking rides on the pontoon, and grilling while listening to Johnny Cash. Fran was able to live out his last years at his home with support from his loving family.
Fran was a loving and patient husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He enjoyed watching his small family bloom. He leaves behind a legacy; his wife Nancy, daughter Renee (Robert) Erickson, granddaughter Nichole (Michael) Krueger and their children, Jenna, Austin, Maddox, Gabriel, and Kaleb, granddaughter Samantha (Thomas) Brunette and their children, Jack, Grayson, Olivia, Shaelee, and Tre, grandson Lance (Rebekka) Erickson and their children Cami, Briella, and Mykey, grandson David Erickson, and great-great grandchildren Kaiden, Amirra, Emmett, Kolson, and Crue.
Francis was preceded in death by his father Ferris, mother Edna, step-father Niilo (Nick) Lyyski, and brother Keith Magnuson.
Fran’s family would like to extend a thank-you to UP Health Systems Marquette, ICU staff, especially his nurses Krista and Gracie.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, August 26 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Memorial services will follow at 5:00 PM with Pastor Dale Ecklid officiating.