Robert (Bob) M. Knutson
Robert (Bob) M. Knutson
Alma Center, WI - Robert (Bob) M. Knutson, 78, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, in his home July 21, 2023. Bob was born Jan. 9, 1945, in Ames, IA, to Lenore Bell and Jasper Cyrus Knutson. He was raised in Story City, IA. 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, IL, 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, and 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 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 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 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.