JONA KRISTIN MAGNUSSON

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JONA KRISTIN MAGNUSSON On April 3, 2005 Jona Kristin Magnusson, dearly beloved wife of the late Sigursteinn Magnusson, passed away after a short illness, at the Victoria General Hospital, with her loving family at her side. Kristin will be lovingly remembered by children, David (Jean Merrell), Diane (Larry Adams), Theodore (Linda Tomchuk), and Bryan (Amy Karlinsky); grandchildren, Rachel (Ulrich Nolting), Laura, Erik, Saul and Anna; sister Elin Hood; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Kristin was predeceased by parents, Maria and Magnus Johnson (Jonsson); sister Lilja; husband Sigursteinn; and brothers, Einar and Franklin. Kristin was born on June 25, 1916 and grew up on the family farm Odda in the Geysir district. As a young woman, she worked at various jobs in the Geysir district and in the city. In 1947, Kristin married Sigursteinn Magnusson and they built a home and rich life together in Magnusville. Kristin was involved in the community, active in the Ladies Aid Liljan, the Woman's Institute, the Parent-Teachers' Association, and most prominently, she was a 4-H Club leader, providing instruction in her home to her many 4-H students. Kristin's family and community life was characterized by an amazing work ethic. She had a positive outlook, was kind and gentle and strong-spirited. She always had an array of projects on the go and was the quintessential night owl. As she raised her children, she worked at home, had many sewing clients, and sold cosmetic products. Later, she worked the night shift at Betel Home in Gimli, where she was a valued employee for 18 years. Kristin's creative energy and skill was expressed through her wizardry in sewing, crocheting, knitting, gardening and canning. She was a fabric arts legend in the community and was often asked to sew bridal party dresses for local weddings. All of Kristin's children and grandchildren wear their Amma-knit Icelandic sweaters with pride. Kristin was a social person and loved to share coffee, cigarettes, and stories with family and friends. She was a gifted conversationalist in Icelandic and English, and would tell stories that were rich in detail. In her later years in Magnusville, she especially valued Beverley's coffee-time visits. In the last few years of her life, Kristin was a resident at Vista Park Lodge, where she enjoyed the excellent care from staff and the friendship of many of the residents. Kristin's focal point was always on her family. She enjoyed her life with Steini, and later nursed him through his illness. Kristin was stoic, generous, and unselfish, always placing family first. She valued education, encouraged her children and grandchildren to excel and took delight in celebrating any and every family occasion. Funeral service will be held Friday, April 8 at 2:00 p.m. in the Riverton-Hnausa Lutheran Church, with Pastor Trudy Thorarinson officiating. Interment to follow at Hnausa Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kristin's memory to the St. Boniface Research Foundation, 409 Tache Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2H 2A6 or to the Riverton-Hnausa Lutheran Church or to an educational institution of choice. We are appreciative of the kindness shown by Dr. Tomia, Genevieve and the staff at Victoria General Hospital. Arrangements entrusted to Gilbart Funeral Chapels in Selkirk. We will be forever grateful for your love, support and encouragement Mom. We will always hold you dear in our hearts.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 06, 2005