Bradley "Brad" Magnuson

Bradley Nels “Brad” Magnuson (1950–2026)

Bradley “Brad” Magnuson passed away on April 24, 2026, in De Soto, Wisconsin. He lived with a grateful heart and a love for the simple things—family, the outdoors, a good story, and laughter shared with those around him. His adventurous spirit and steady presence will be deeply missed.

Brad was born September 6, 1950, in Rockford, Illinois, the beloved son of Paul and June Magnuson. He faced Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) with strength and quiet determination.

As a young boy, Brad moved with his family to Stoddard, Wisconsin, where he was raised on the family farm, Mountain High Farms. He grew up alongside his brothers, Paul and Keith, and his sisters, Lynda and Kathy. Those years shaped Brad’s lifelong love of family, hard work, and the “remember-when” stories that only come from farm life—and a little mischief.

Brad graduated from De Soto High School in 1968, where he participated in wrestling, track, and football. It was also there he met the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Linda (Anderson). They were married July 31, 1971, and built a devoted partnership rooted in loyalty, laughter, and family. Together they raised three children—Sherri, Ryan, and Gina—who were the center of Brad’s world.

Brad worked nearly 20 years for G. Heileman Brewing Company in La Crosse and later at Nelson Muffler in Viroqua until retirement. He took pride in providing for his family, and even during long hours, he made time for what mattered most.

Brad showed his love through time spent together—camping, fishing, and boating trips; backyard barbecues; and special moments taking Ryan deer hunting. In later years, his grandchildren—and then his great-grandchildren—brought out an especially tender side of him. He delighted in sharing their photos and celebrating each milestone, and he never missed a chance to make them laugh—often by asking, “Hey Google, what does a fart sound like?”—a favorite that never failed to bring giggles, especially from his great-granddaughter Ava.

An avid outdoorsman, Brad felt most at home in the fresh air—especially during deer season. He enjoyed hunting, target shooting, sharpening knives, riding his side-by-side, building a good fire, and checking his trail cams year-round for the next big buck. There was nothing he enjoyed more than an “icy cold beer” at the end of the day. He was a natural storyteller with a quick wit, and his sense of humor could brighten any conversation. Those closest to him will always cherish special “garage time,” and the rides and visits into “the valley” with Brad.

Brad will be remembered for the way he made people feel welcome, for his steadfast devotion to Linda and their family, and for the stories that will be told and retold, keeping his spirit close for years to come.

Brad is survived by his wife of 55 years, Linda Magnuson; his children, Sherri (Chad) Murray, Ryan (Kim) Magnuson, and Gina (Keith) Sandvick; his grandchildren, Brooke (Kyle) Peters, Andrew Murray, Hank Magnuson, Olivia Magnuson, Isabel (Marvin) Coblentz, and Grace Sandvick; his great-grandchildren, Ava, Sophia, Charles, Angela, and Emmerich; his surviving siblings, Lynda (Al) Lawson, Paul (Rita) Magnuson, Kathleen (Jerry) Veglahn, and Keith (Christine) Magnuson; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and June Magnuson.

A celebration of Brad’s life will be held on a future date. Family and friends will be invited to gather, share memories, and honor his life.

Roth Family Cremation Center and Funeral Services is assisting the family.