Brian Magnuson, age 47, passed away in Olathe, KS on February 4th, 2024.

He will forever be remembered as larger than life and a friend to everyone he met. Brian didn't know what it meant to live small. He was exceptionally generous with his time and his talents, was "all in" for every project or hobby he undertook, and left a wide-reaching impact on those around him. His commitment to excellence extended from his personal walk with Jesus to his loyal dedication to his job as an air traffic controller. Brian's outgoing and cheerful personality, sharp intellect, eagerness to help anyone in need, and love of people are only a few of his many positive attributes.

Brian was born on June 10, 1976 in New Haven, CT to Richard and Linda Magnuson. Brian graduated in 1995 from Skyline High School in Idaho Falls and attended ISU college for two years before joining the AirForce in 1998. He went through basic training and then onto tech school to become an Air Traffic Controller. Before moving to his first duty station, he married the love of his life and High School sweetheart, Jennifer Salisbury, in December 1998.  Together they moved to Scott Air Force Base in Bellville, IL. After separation from the Air Force, Brian moved his family to Olathe where they enjoyed an adventurous life with their three children Christopher, Samantha, and Christian. Brian enjoyed vacationing with his friends and family, riding in his beloved jeep, his wife's home cooking, and bragging about his children to his coworkers.

Brian was a proud USAF Veteran who served his country as a military Air Traffic Controller from 1998-2003. After honorably separating from the military, Brian continued his journey as an Air Traffic Controller by joining the FAA in 2003 and was assigned to Kansas City ARTCC. Brian served as a dedicated and dignified controller for more than two decades. For his entire tenure with FAA, Brian was a spirited member of NATCA. Most recently in 2022 Brian was awarded a National Archie League Award for going above and beyond while an aircraft was encountering a dire pressurization emergency at high altitude. Due to his astonishing efforts that day the aircraft in question was able to safely land. Brian truly did love his job. His passion for air traffic control was evident daily and he truly was a legendary controller.

Brian had an abundance of things to be proud of, but what he esteemed the most was his relationship with Jesus Christ. Brian displayed the love of Christ most in his authentic desire to come alongside people in serving and meeting their needs.

Brian is survived by his wife of 25 years, Jennifer (Salisbury) Magnuson of Olathe, KS and three children Christopher, Samantha, and Christian; his father, Richard Magnuson and step-mother, Geri Magnuson, of Idaho Falls, ID; his brother, Erik Magnuson, and niece, Jessyca Magnuson of Idaho Falls, ID; along with numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Brian is preceded in death by his mother, Linda Magnuson, and sister, Tina Magnuson.

Private interment will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2024. A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion in Olathe, KS (410 E Dennis Ave) on April 6, 2024. The informal "come and go" visitation will be held from 11am to 1pm with a short service beginning at 1pm.