The Passing of Sigrun Øen: The Beloved Mother Behind Magnus Carlsen's Success
12.07.2024 20:11 | NewsOn July 7th, it was sadly announced that Sigrun Øen, the mother of the famous chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, passed away after a long illness. She was 61 years old, and her death has affected not only her family but also the wider chess community
Sigrun Øen was a chemist by education and worked at an environmental agency, but after the birth of her children, she decided to leave her career. Her priority became her family, which included her husband Henrik Carlsen, also a great chess enthusiast, and their four children: daughters Ingrid, Ellen, Signe, and son Magnus, born in 1990 in Tønsberg, Norway.
Over the years, the Øen-Carlsen family lived in several countries. First in Espoo, Finland, and Brussels, Belgium, before returning to Norway in 1998, where they settled first in Lommedalen near Oslo and later in Haslum.
Sigrun and Henrik met in the early 1980s and formed an inseparable pair since then. Henrik worked as an IT consultant for Exxon and SAP, while Sigrun devoted herself to their family and interests. When Magnus' extraordinary chess talent became apparent, his parents did not hesitate to rent a motorhome to travel around Europe for nine months, supporting his development at chess tournaments.
Magnus Carlsen, who was originally registered for the SuperUnited Tournament in Zagreb, had to cancel his participation at the last minute. The given reason, "urgent family matter," raised concerns that unfortunately were confirmed by the death of his mother.
Sigrun Øen's funeral will take place on July 17th. The Carlsen family requests that instead of flowers, people make donations to cancer research, which was a cause close to Sigrun's heart.
Sigrun Øen, with her positive and friendly nature, always radiated confidence and calm. She was not only a mother but also a key figure in the harmony that prevailed in the Carlsen family. Even as Magnus became the best chess player in the world and a world champion, his family constantly supported and accompanied him to tournaments, providing emotional support during tough times.
The loss of Sigrun Øen will be immensely felt. Her contribution not only to her family but also to the world of chess will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her.