Robert (Bob) M. Knutson, age 78, passed away peacefully, surrounded
by family, in his home on July 21, 2023. Bob was born January 9, 1945 in Ames, Iowa to
Lenore Bell and Jasper Cyrus Knutson. He was raised in Story City, Iowa. In 1962, Bob
enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 17 and he served his country until 1965.
While stationed at Fort Campbell in Kentucky, he completed Airborne (Jump) School and
was awarded the United States Military Parachutist Badge. Upon graduation, he proudly
served in the 101st Airborne Division. He was also awarded the Sharpshooter Badge and
was discharged at the rank of Army Specialist Four. He then attended SIU Carbondale and
worked as a banker at the Bank of Herrin in Herrin, Illinois, and ran a small dairy farm. In
December of 1971, he married his wife, Brenda Mae Jennings, and they remained married,
nearly 52 years, at the time of his death.
After moving to the Wisconsin area, Bob worked in management in the meat packing
industry for a number of years. In 1980, Bob followed his calling to preach the word of God
which led to over 40 years of service. Bob preached at The Village Christian Church (Alma
Center), West Lima Church of Christ, Sugar Grove Church of Christ and The Community
Christian Church (Black River Falls). Bob also enjoyed his work with the young people of
Black River Falls High School where he worked as a Suspension/Detention Assistant from
1995 until retirement in 2012. Bob was also a proud member of the American Legion.
Bob was preceded in death by both of his parents and his younger brother, David Knutson.
He is survived by his wife, Brenda Knutson, four children: Robert (Julie) Knutson of Illinois,
Robin (Blake) Norman of Illinois, Jeffrey (C.J.) Knutson of Wisconsin and Bryan Knutson of
Wisconsin. He is also survived by the joys of his life, his grandchildren: Tyler (Felicia)
Knutson of Illinois, Taylor Norman of Illinois, Casandrah Knutson of Wisconsin, Teaghan
Knutson of Wisconsin, Dani Murray of Wisconsin and Caelee Buell of Minnesota as well as
one great-grandson, Jaxtin Hopinka.
He is also survived by sisters, Sarah (Gary) Rogers of Missouri, Susan (Paul) Bryant of
Alabama, Joy (Jim) Henry of Oregon, and Karla Byess of Alabama; and a brother, Frank
(Sharon) Knutson of Wisconsin.
Bob was a man of God, an avid gardener, a lover of animals/farming, a dedicated Packer
fan, a passionate story-teller, and a courageous fighter who treasured his entire family.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 26 at The Community Christian Church in
Black River Falls. A private family visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. with community visitation
beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Graveside services
will be immediately following the memorial service at Oakwood Cemetery in Merrillan.
The Jensen-Modjeski Funeral Home of Hixton is assisting with arrangements, 715-963-
2311.
No responses yet