John Coleman Magnus

John Coleman (Cole) Magnus, age 93, of Sunrise, Florida, passed away on July 19, 2025. A father, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher and proud veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, Cole lived in Pittsburgh, PA and in his later years, retired in Sunrise, FL.

Cole is survived by his five children: Marybeth Dietz, Patrice Fee, John (Jodi) Magnus, Laura Fix, and Greg (Kathleen) Magnus; eight grandchildren: Kurt Dietz, Lindsey (Jack) Dugan, Courtney (Taylor) Creedon, Sydney Fee, Nicole Magnus, Emily (Austin) Spence, Brian Magnus and Kevin Magnus; and three great-grandchildren: John Dugan, Jr. (JJ), Cooper Dugan, and Colby Creedon.

Cole was preceded in death by his beloved parents John and Mary Magnus, who were exemplary role models and strong pillars of faith. Cole was also preceded in death by his only brother, Regis Magnus, whom he admired and shared many good times together with their common interests.

Cole was born on May 1, 1932, in Munhall, PA. He grew up living close to his large, extended family of many cherished aunts and uncles with whom he shared very close and treasured relationships. There he attended Munhall High School, where he had the unique opportunity to play up from JV to the varsity football team to play alongside his beloved Uncle Bud.

After high school, Cole's love for water inspired him to enlist in the U.S. Coast Guard where he served as a military chef, primarily stationed on a remote island in the Philippines during the Korean war. Following his military service, Cole continued his education at Slippery Rock University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Teaching, then a Master's degree in Forestry from Penn State University. Cole established a career in teaching, with a long tenure as a science teacher in the Penn Hills School District in Pittsburgh, PA.

Cole will be remembered for his passion for nature and the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, often enjoying camping in the wilderness inspired by many adventurous trips with his father. Cole was also passionate about both playing and watching all sports, especially football. He coached jr. and high school football and basketball, enjoyed playing golf, cards, shooting pool, swimming, reading and challenged himself with one of his favorite daily pass times playing chess. Cole was blessed with many close, dear friends who shared the same passions and activities over their lifetimes together. Growing up with his mom's talented piano playing and his dad's singing at home and around the campfires, he had a deep appreciation for music. From his assignments in NYC with the Coast Guard, he also truly loved all the many Broadway musicals and enjoyed listening to them daily.

Cole was a member of All Saints Catholic Church in Sunrise, where he served as a lector reading scripture and prayers for Mass. Most recently, he continued to be blessed by the church's Homebound Ministries, being deeply grateful for the devoted ladies who lovingly served him the greatest gifts of prayer and the Eucharist weekly.

Cole's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to his caregivers Nadine, Andrea and Francine, who were a source of great comfort, care, compassion and steadfast presence during his more recent difficult journey. We are also very grateful for his dear friend Annette, for her loyal, devoted friendship and encouragement to him throughout all the years.

A private memorial service with immediate family with be held with military honors at the Veterans South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, FL.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27

Professional arrangements are entrusted to:
Gary Panoch Funeral Home
6140 N. Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33487
561-997-8580
www.gpanochfunerals.com

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