Robin Magnuson

Robin Magnuson, beloved father, husband, grandfather, brother, and uncle died at home in the early morning hours on Thursday, September 19th. Born in Tacoma on the day of the Narrows Bridge collapse on November 7th, 1940 to Lucille (Rudd) and Robert Magnuson. During his early school years his family lived in Worley, ID, Opportunity, WA, Tacoma, WA, Idaho Falls, ID, Lewiston, ID, finally settling in Kendrick, ID.

As a Jr. High and High School student Robin enjoyed playing football and basketball helping to take the Kendrick Tigers to the state tournaments multiple times. He earned a scholarship in basketball to the College of Idaho in Caldwell, where he studied English, and History. His college summers were spent firefighting for the Idaho Forest Service. In 1960, while ride-sharing to Grangeville for Thanksgiving Break, he came to the attention of his future wife, Cindy, during a blizzard on the old Whitebird pass. They were married on December 29th, 1962 and celebrated 61 years together.

Robin was a gifted educator. After graduating from the University of California, Northridge, he taught at San Fernando H.S. CA, Stanfield, OR and Troy, ID. He then taught English to young adults at both the University of Idaho and Washington State University. He achieved high accolades for creating the Writing Lab program at Washington State University. He enjoyed helping his students learn to think critically about their world. He was also a talented coach. He was a life-long scholar of history and politics with a deep respect and love for the stories of indigenous peoples, in particular the Nimiipuu.

In 1966 he was drafted and entered the army as a Conscientious Objector. He served honorably in Bamberg, Germany as a medic and educator, helping soldiers learn to read and write.

Robin and Cindy have 3 children, Lenea Kindred (Paul Pierzchanowski), Joshua Ellis (Jessica), and Seth Levi (Candace), whom Robin called his first Goofballs.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and by his brother Dana one week prior. Besides his wife and children he leaves behind his cherished Grand-Goofballs: Aurora Jade, Ellis Brady, Natasha Kindred, Brenna Marguerite, Shepherd Phillip, and Gabriel Robin. Siblings Dee (Dick), Lee (Keith), and Gisele (Craig), and many nieces and nephews all of whom he loved very much.

Cindy and her children wish to thank all of their family members, friends, and Advanced Hospice who have shown love and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers please contribute to your local food bank.