Donald Edward Magnan

Donald Edward Magnan, age 77, retired United States Navy, passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at his residence in Centerton, Arkansas.

He was born on September 25, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, to Lillian Helen Nimmer and Cyril Joseph Magnan. At just 17 years old, he embarked on his military career by enlisting in the Navy to serve in Vietnam. Donald proudly served in the US Navy as a Seabee, which allowed him to travel globally on behalf of his nation. Over his military career of 30 years, he received multiple commendations, including the Purple Heart. Donald was a dedicated Veteran with a strong love for his country, as shown by the patriotic decorations, display of his medals and the American flag proudly displayed. He belonged to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and was also a member of the FreeMasons.

Alongside his patriotic passion, Donald had a deep affection for animals, especially his cherished dogs, Fuchino and Cami. He found great enjoyment in fishing, had a passion for classic western movies, engaged in ham radio operations, pursued leathercraft, enjoyed upgrading his electric bike, and delighted in sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm at the gun range.

Donald has been living in Northwest Arkansas for the last three years since relocating from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Eileen Magnan, his adopted son Dennis Benson, his sister Dorothy Swart and his niece Karen Swart Whelan.

Don is fondly remembered by his nephews Terry (Sonda) Swart from Bella Vista, Arkansas, and Don (Sue) Yurecko from Zimmerman, Minnesota; his niece Mary Swart from Decatur, Arkansas; his daughter-in-law Lois Benson from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota; his granddaughters Emma Benson from Findley, Minnesota, and Sarah Benson from New Hope, Minnesota; as well as his great-nieces and nephews Mark (Ashley) Swart and Kenlee, Angela (Chad Robins) Swart and Cameron and Elliot, Nancy (Kyle) Olejnicak; Justin (Kara) Yurecko; David (Ally) Yurecko including Jackson, Jason and Levi; and Marcie Whelan and Riki Whelan.

A memorial service along with an inurnment ceremony is scheduled for September 25, 2024 at 11:30am at the Fayetteville National Cemetery in Fayetteville, Arkansas, featuring full US Navy Military Honors. During this time, Eileen's inurnment will also take place.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, 3033 Wilson Blvd, Ste 300, Arlington, VA 22201 Home - Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (vvmf.org) or other Veterans Program of your choice.