FRANKLIN: Kris Magnussen

Kris Magnussen, 76, of Franklin, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026.
Born on July 24, 1949, to Henry and Elsa Magnussen, Kris was the proud son of first-generation Americans of Norwegian heritage. He carried with him throughout his life the values of hard work, loyalty, and family.
Kris graduated from Medfield High School with the Class of 1967, where he was affectionately known as "Mags." A talented and competitive athlete, he proudly wore jersey #75 on the football field and forged friendships that lasted a lifetime.
For many years, Kris dedicated himself to serving the Dover community through his work with the Highway Department. Later, he pursued his true passion working with trees and became a self-taught master arborist. Kris had a remarkable gift for his craft. No tree was too challenging to climb or too difficult to scale. He worked with confidence, agility, and grace, earning the admiration and respect of everyone who knew him.
Above all else, Kris's greatest joy in life was his family. His beloved granddaughters, Lily and Ava, held a special place in his heart. He treasured every moment spent with them and never missed an opportunity to brag about their accomplishments. They brought him endless pride, laughter, and happiness.
Kris loved nature and found peace in the outdoors. Some of his happiest memories were made at Lake Manchaug, surrounded by family and friends. Days were filled with swimming, boating, lawn jarts, bonfires, and creating memories that will be cherished forever. He also loved spending time with his wife, Doris, and his children at his camp in North Woodstock, Maine. The fresh mountain air, rugged landscape, and quiet beauty of Maine brought him great joy. It was a place he loved deeply, and he hoped future generations of his family would continue to enjoy it for years to come.
A lifelong car enthusiast, Kris loved anything with an engine. He could often be found cruising around in his Jeep, packed with tools, supplies, and treasures, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. No job was too dirty or too difficult if someone needed help. Kris was also the proud caretaker of his son Nate's 1968 Chevelle Malibu, driving it with great pride and keeping Nate's spirit alive with every mile. When he wasn't behind the wheel, he could often be found at the racetrack. A devoted NASCAR fan, Kris spent countless weekends enjoying races alongside his sons and brothers.
Kris was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He was a gentle giant with an enormous heart. Kindness came naturally to him, and generosity defined his character. He may not have had much, but if someone was in need, he would gladly give them the shirt off his back. He was the person people could always count on, and his presence made the world a better place.
Kris was predeceased by his parents, Henry Magnussen and Elsa (Christiansen) Magnussen; his beloved wife, Doris (Hutton) Magnussen; his son, Nathan (Nate) Magnussen; and his brothers, Kraig Magnussen and Kirk Magnussen.
He is survived by his son, Brian Magnussen, and Brian's daughters, Lily and Ava; his brother, Karl Magnussen and Karl's wife, Yvonne; his sister, Karen Sessa; his sisters-in-law Faye Magnussen and Laurie Magnussen; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Kris was truly one of the good ones. His strength, generosity, laughter, and unwavering love for his family will never be forgotten. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the trees he climbed, the roads he traveled, the memories he created, and the countless lives he touched.

No funeral details available.

Information courtesy of https://www.robertsmitchellcaruso.com/