JENS HAFSTEINN MAGNUSSON

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JENS HAFSTEINN MAGNUSSON June 6, 1912 - October 9, 2011 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our father, Jens Hafsteinn Magnusson, peacefully and with characteristic dignity at the age of 99. Jens was born June 6, 1912 in Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland to Emrisjana and Jon Magnusson, but lived most of his life in Selkirk, Manitoba. As a lifetime resident, there was hardly a face that he didn't know and that didn't know him. All that knew Jens described him as an amazing man. He always met people with an authentic and heartfelt welcome. He had an innate curiosity and passion for life and often said I learned something new today. Jens would wake up each day and wonder what adventure awaited him. Like many Icelanders he worked alongside his father as a commercial fisherman beginning at the age of 14. In the off season, Jens and his brother Axel earned their living painting and wallpapering. He thrived on hard work and loved a challenge. He often said, If I rest too much I'll get rusty. Jens was accepted into commercial art school but abandoned his dream to serve his country in the Second World War. Before going overseas, he served at Camp Borden as a gunner instructor. At the end of the war, Jens spent over a year waiting in Holland to return to his beloved Ruth and their first two children. He arrived back to North America on the Queen Mary in 1946. Building his first home in 1949, he and Ruth raised nine children. The beautiful and loving home always welcomed family and friends. As the family grew so did the house. The home was a place of comfort, celebration and festivities. It overflowed with an abundance of children, love and laughter. Jens had a gift to make each of his children feel as if they were the special one. Without ever having to raise his voice, his calm and steady nature built a firm foundation for the family. With Jens' artistic ability and entrepreneurial spirit he established Daerwood Decorating in the early 1950s where he added colour and style to many homes throughout the Interlake. Working six days a week, Jens still made time to serve on the Kiwanis housing board well into his 90s and was a charter member. His familiar face was seen throughout the coffee shops where he always stayed connected to his community. Over pie and coffee he found camaraderie regardless of age. His wealth of knowledge and experience was sought and generously shared with novices and experts alike. Everyone has a Jens Story. His landmark store closed in 2008 when Jens was 96 years old. With his children scattered about Canada and the U.S., upon retirement he remarked, I've got places to go. And go he did; he travelled to spend time with each family member up until his 99th year. To celebrate his 93rd birthday, Jens returned to Heimaey, Iceland where he was welcomed with open arms and love from relatives that he had never met. His warm and gentle spirit was embraced by the entire island. This memorable visit opened the door to a lifelong connection between the families. Jens led a vibrant and healthy life. His positive outlook and youthful energy was an inspiration to all who knew him. Jens is survived by nine children: Helene (Bob), John (Sandi), Dale (Lenore), Barbara (Ken), Marion, Christina (Bill), Carol (Jock), Leslie and Lisa. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and many extended relatives. Jens was predeceased by the love of his life, Evangeline Ruth (nee McKenzie), in 1989. Prayers will be held on Thursday, October 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the Gilbart Funeral Chapel, Selkirk. Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 14 at 11:00 a.m. in the Good Shepherd Church, Selkirk. Donations can be made to the Selkirk and District General Hospital Fund, Palliative Care Unit. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements. www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 12, 2011