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Bernard Magnussen Obituary
May 8, 1937 - January 3, 2016
Resident of Atherton, CABernard L. Magnussen passed away on Sunday, January 3rd, after a valiant ten-year battle with Alzheimer's. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his family: his wife Sandra, his children Kendall, Bo and his wife Heidi, Ryan, and Alicia and her husband Darren Phelan, and grandchildren Zoe, Maggie, Ryan, Poppy, and Zander. He is also survived by his daughter Carey and granddaughter Rayne. Bernie touched many lives with his generous heart, playful sense of humor, and positive outlook on life.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, he attended New Trier High School and was an accomplished junior golfer. His talents and abilities earned him a scholarship at Stanford University where he was an outstanding collegiate golfer and received his bachelor's degree in business administration. For almost forty years, Bernie was an automobile dealer who owned many franchises. His flagship stores are Magnussen Toyota of Palo Alto and Magnussen Lexus of Fremont.
He always ran his dealerships with a customer first mentality and conducted his business as he conducted his life: treating others as he wished to be treated. He was very successful over the years winning him many prestigious automotive business awards. Bernie was also a longstanding member of the Palo Alto Club and Sharon Heights Golf and Country Club.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, February 2nd at Stanford Memorial Church at 4:00 p.m. (450 Serra Mall, Bldg. 500, Stanford, CA). The service will be followed by a celebration of Bernie's life at Sharon Heights Golf and Country Club (2900 Sand Hill Rd., Menlo Park, CA).
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Alzheimer's research at Stanford University. In the memo line of the check or with an accompanying memo, please write: "Gift for Alzheimer's research in memory of Bernard Magnussen." Mail check to Sanford University, Attn: Anne Longo, 3172 Porter Drive, Suite 210, Palo Alto, CA 94304. Your gift is 100% tax deductible.
Donations can also be made to Rosener House, 800 Middle Ave., Menlo Park, CA 94025 or online at penvol.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bernard Magnussen
Jason Lloyd
July 24, 2016
I was Bernie's chauffeur when I worker for Riable Rides back in 2003-2005. He was a great family man and helped me with getting a car when I was just starting out in the world. We Used to talk about issues in my college texts. He is one of the leaders I aspired to be like. I'm greatful and honored to have been able to have been a small part of Bernie's life. My condolences to the Magnussen family. My prayers are with you!
May 9, 2016
Bernie-
You were a trusted friend and mentor during a pivotal time in my life. Your kindness, belief, and generosity are remembered. Thank you.
To the entire Magnussen family, my thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Best wishes.
John Pico
February 6, 2016
Bernie, You always made everyone smile and feel good. You will be missed by all. My condolences to your family and my prayers for all of you. You were one of the best guys I knew.
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January 16, 2016
Joyce & I are so saddened by our friends passing. Bernie will never be forgotten.
Joyce & Saul Levine
Fred Sutter
January 14, 2016
To The Magnussen Family. I am very sorry to hear the loss of Mr. Magnussen today. While I had a short time to know Bernie and the entire family. I really enjoyed my time with Bernie and the family. I have always respected him and he was a lot like his father, Hank. Both great guys. You will be missed.
Fred R. Sutter, Jr.
Phoenix, Arizona
Danny Pritchard
January 13, 2016
Bernie you will be missed, I got my chevrolet truck when you had the chevy dealer in san bruno and I thank you my condolences to your family at this time
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