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NEWBERRY, MI – Marvel Magnuson, 95, of Newberry, Michigan, passed away on October 9, 2026, at her home in the loving and comforting care of her family.
Marvel was born June 18, 1931, to Allen and Marie Bailey. She graduated from Newberry High School and married William A. "Bill" Magnuson on September 29, 1950. Together, they raised five children and shared more than 58 years of marriage before Bill passed away on March 24, 2009.
Marvel retired after 25 years at the state hospital, where she worked in nursing and the activity therapy department. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Newberry and sang in the choir for many years. She was also a member of the Luce County Historical Society, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Elks Lodge, and served on the board of the Tahquamenon Logging Museum.
Marvel enjoyed walking and cross-country skiing for many years. She loved to travel and watch her grandchildren's sporting events. Many wonderful, happy years were spent relaxing with family and friends at the cabin on Big Manistique Lake.
She was a fabulous cook and baker, happily making special family requests such as homemade pasties and pork pies, to name a few.
People were always greeted with Marvel's beautiful smile, warm hugs, and a unique way of making each person feel special. If you asked anyone in the family who her favorite was, they all thought it was them. She always had time to listen and was proud beyond words of her family. Her laughter and enthusiasm were contagious, and her style was admired.
Even the friends of her grandchildren loved her and called her "Nana," always being greeted with her loving hugs. She made a point of gathering all the grandchildren at the cabin, giving them memories that remain to this day and helping them become not just cousins, but best friends.
Marvel's family includes her children, Norma Jane (Larry) Lambert, Penny, Mary Margaret and Robert Bystrom, William "Billy" (Sharon) Magnuson, and Thomas "Tom" (Abby) Magnuson.
She is also survived by her grandchildren, Kelly (Brian), Christopher (Erin), Gabriel, Sarah (Ryan), Jessica (Chad), Joshua (Sarah), Seth (Taylor), Emily (Ryan), Nicholas, Michael, Rebecca (Scott), Jeremy (Gabby), Alicia (Jeremy), Ryan (Liz), and Mallory (Dan); 22 great-grandchildren, Chase, Audrey, Brinley, Samantha, Macie, Max, Mia, Violet, Reese, Ian, Ethan, Hayden, Collin, Alexis, Riley, Riley Kay, (Nalu) Quentin, Rickie De, Mollie, Norman, Blair and Brynn; and two great-great-grandchildren, Huntleigh and Colson. Marvel was also godmother to Amy Dolholph (Hall). She is further survived by her siblings, Thomas and Kathy, along with extended family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; her parents, Allen and Marie Bailey; and her siblings, Norma Jane, Eunice, Beverly, Shirley, Brady, and Ricky.
Her family feels blessed to have had her in their lives and hopes that all can be inspired by her example. Her legacy lives on in all the hearts she touched. Those who loved her can pass on that same kindness, knowing she is looking down and is proud of them all.
The family extends a heartfelt thank-you to Northwood Hospice, Calvin at Prescription Oxygen, Fassbender Hansen Funeral & Cremation Services, and First Presbyterian Church for their kindness, compassion, and support. The care shown to Marvel and the comfort given to her family have meant more than words can express.
Visitation will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Newberry on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon. The funeral service will follow at noon, with Rev. Melinda VanderSys and Rev. Nancy Barkat officiating. Burial will take place at Forest Home Cemetery in Newberry, followed by a luncheon at the American Legion.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to North Woods Hospice Foundation, Yooper Youth, or First Presbyterian Church in Newberry.
Fassbender Hansen Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderswansonhansen.com.