Carrie Helen Magnusson

Carrie Helen Magnusson, 92, formerly of Sun City West, Arizona, passed away on August 30, 2024, at Best Care Plus West in Marshall, Michigan.

Known better by her middle name, Helen was born on April 12, 1932, to Guy and Opal (Tyler) Whittle in Henderson County, Tennessee. As a child, she and her family moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where she was raised. On June 14, 1952, Helen married Niels Magnusson, Jr. in St. Louis, Missouri. The two were introduced by mutual friends, and they spent over 70 wonderful years together before Niels’ passing in 2022.

Before starting their family, Helen and Niels enjoyed traveling and camping. As a family, they lived in Las Vegas, Battle Creek, and Denver, then returned to Battle Creek until their retirement, after which the couple moved to Sun City West, Arizona. While raising her children, Helen was involved in Girl Scouts as a leader. She enjoyed bowling and played for a league at Nottke’s in Battle Creek. Interested in genealogy and ancestry, Helen was also a longtime member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. After moving to Arizona, Helen volunteered with the Maricopa County Posse through the Sherrif’s Department for over 20 years. She loved the camaraderie, chatting with neighbors and giving back to her community. Helen and Niels also enjoyed playing bridge with their neighbors.

Helen was an avid sewer, making clothes as well as quilting. She also loved to read, everything from novels to the newspaper. Those who knew Helen knew she always had a positive outlook on life and could sit and talk with anyone.

Helen is survived by her children Niels Magnusson, III of Battle Creek, Michigan and Laura (Tom) Will of Chicago, Illinois; grandchildren Elizabeth Magnusson of Midland, Michigan, Catherine Magnusson and Paul Magnusson both of Battle Creek, Michigan, and Sasha Will of Chicago, Illinois; special niece and nephews Carol Rauh, Louis Greco, Tim Harris and Chris Harris, all of St. Louis, Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Niels; parents Guy and Opal; and sisters Hazel Greco and Jane Harris.

Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US HWY 27 N, Marshall, Michigan. A private interment will take place at Camino Del Sol in Sun City West, Arizona.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan (gshom.org) or directly at https://www.gshom.org/en/support-us/memorial---tributes.html

Donations can be mailed to: 601 W Maple Street Kalamazoo, MI 49008.