Terry Jon Magnuson
Look for me in the sunsets, and smile."
Obituary
Terry Jon Magnuson
April 15, 1962 — January 25, 2026
Terry Jon Magnuson, 63, passed away peacefully at his home in Perham on January 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family, after a courageous four-year battle with cancer.
Terry was born on April 15, 1962, in Fargo, North Dakota, to Leonard "Ken" and Jaris "Jeri" Magnuson. From an early age, his drive, talent, and unmistakable joy for life were evident to all who knew him. A dedicated and tireless hard worker, Terry was also a gifted athlete who excelled in football, baseball, track, and wrestling. His leadership and character shone both on and off the field, culminating in the honor of being named Homecoming King before graduating as a proud Spartan from Fargo North High School in 1980.
Terry continued his athletic journey at North Dakota State University, where he proudly competed as a Bison. After college, Terry spent many years working for Coca-Cola in Moorhead and Fergus Falls, and for Bischof Distributing in Perham, before going on to build and operate his own successful real estate business. He worked tirelessly in his career until June 2022, when he was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer, a battle he faced with remarkable strength, determination, and grace.
In 1987, Terry married Barbara (Wickenheiser) in Fargo. Their story began much earlier when they met in the fifth grade, growing into a love and partnership that spanned 38 beautiful years. Together, they raised two sons, Ben and Taylor, and built a life rooted in love, laughter, and countless cherished memories.
Terry is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara; his sons, Benjamin "Ben" (Kaelynn) Magnuson and Taylor (Madison) Magnuson; his cherished granddaughter, Macallan Magnuson; his parents, Ken and Jeri Magnuson; his brothers, Steve (Cindy) Magnuson and Scott (Carol) Magnuson; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who were truly family. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and several beloved members of his extended family.
Terry's happy place was always the lake, first at Loon Lake in Vergas, and later at Little Pine Lake in Perham, where he found pure joy watching his children and granddaughter play. He loved sunny days on the water, driving the pontoon, playing sports, hosting bonfires, cheering on watersports, playing with the family dog, Crosby, and simply being surrounded by the people he loved most.
Beyond the lake, Terry proudly coached and supported his sons in their many sports, passionately cheered on the NDSU Bison and Minnesota Vikings, enjoyed golfing, treasured time spent visiting his children in Arizona and Oregon, and shared laughter and memories with lifelong friends.
Terry will be remembered for his unmistakable laugh, his zest for life, and his unwavering devotion to his family. He had a rare gift for turning any gathering into a celebration and making everyone feel welcome. He lived fully, loved deeply, and remained profoundly grateful for the life he was given. The passing of Terry leaves a space that cannot be filled. Yet the memories, lessons, and moments shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know Terry.
Forever in our hearts.
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Thank you for the nice thank you card. I am so glad I attended the celebration at the lake.
Terry became my friend as a Post 2 teammate. Things I remember most:
Terry always had a great attitude and his smile was always present.
Terry was a great athlete. He was a very gifted baseball player.
Terry was the consummate teammate. I loved playing baseball with him.
I actually did meet Ben and Taylor. Not sure they would remember it.
About 11 years ago I bought a lake cabin on lake Ida. We were driving through DL and saw that they had some paddle boards for sale. We got to talking and somehow we made the connection that they were Terry’s boys. And of course, I asked for the Post 2-Terry discount! 😂 I’m not sure I got one, but it makes for a good story.
I will always have great memories of Terry.
God bless you and your family,
Paul Honl 79’
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