Robert Magnusson, former head of Simmons Bedding Co., died in early March. He was 79.
After graduating from high school in 1949, Magnusson enlisted in the Navy for three years. He attended the University of Idaho and graduated from the University of Illinois. His first job was for Shell Oil in Chicago. He then worked for Uarco Business Forms, which led to a job at the chemical company Celanese.
He entered the bedding industry when he became vice president of Stearns & Foster. He was named president of Simmons in 1979 and was named chairman and chief executive officer 10 years later. He retired in 1993. Magnusson was honored by the City of Hope in 1988.
Survivors include his wife, Kathleen; daughters Kelly and Mary Rose; son Norman; sister Louise Edwards; six grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to an educational endowment fund. For more information, contact Kristi Thelen at UBS financial services at 404–760–3050.
