Obituary of Philip R. Magnuson

Philip R. Magnuson, 77, of Southwestern Drive in Lakewood, died Monday, November 22, 2021 in his home. He was born March 22, 1944 in Jamestown and was the son of the late Philip R. and Phyllis Lawson Magnuson. After graduating from The Gunnery School in Washington, CT in 1962, Phil continued his education by earning his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Carolina in 1966. He was commissioned in the US Navy in 1966, serving aboard the USS Wasp until his discharge as a Lieutenant JG in 1969, and retired from the Naval Reserves at the rank of Commander in the 1980's. Phil continued his education by receiving his MBA from East Carolina University in 1971, and in 1984 a Certificate of Advanced Study from SUNY Fredonia. His earlier employment was as Manager of Corporate Planning for the AVM Corporation. He then enjoyed 25 years as a middle school science teacher at Panama Central School. Following retirement, Phil continued substituting at Panama, and as an avid golfer, enjoyed his work in the pro shop at Chautauqua Golf Club beginning in 2000. He also wintered in Boca Raton, Fla. where he volunteered at the Children's Science Explorium, as well as operated the carousel at Sugar Sand Park. Phil was a long-time member of First Baptist Church and in more recent years, Zion Covenant Church. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his sister Ann Magnuson Case. He leaves three nieces: Dr. Elizabeth Case (Steve Dolmanisth) of Farmington, CT, Amy Case Rosenfield (Michael) of Farmington, CT, and Sarah Case Gilbert of Portland OR; and several great nieces and nephew. Phil is also survived by his foster sons whom he considered his family, including Jason Frye (MariAngela) and his son Kamden of St. Cloud, Fla., Kevin Champang of Weatherford, TX, Mark Meredith of Jamestown, NY, and 5 additional foster sons. Phil leaves a wide circle of friends including his breakfast group he met with for many years. He treasured the conversations he had with them. Phil was full of stories and was always a pleasure to talk to. Following Phil's wishes, no service or visitation will be observed. Interment will be with his parents in Sunset Hill Cemetery. Phil requested memorials be made to the library of one's choice, or a charity of choice.