John C. Knutson
March 11, 1939 ~ May 13, 2020
John C. Knutson, age 81, of New Hampton, IA passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at his home with his family by his side.
Conway-Markham Funeral Home is entrusted with funeral arrangements. Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, a private graveside service is being planned with a public memorial celebration of life to be announced at a later date. Per John's request, in lieu of floral memorial gifts, please send memorial donations to The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge located in Rochester, MN. For further information, please contact 641-394-4331.
John Charles Knutson was born March 11th 1939 in Chickasaw County, the son of Theodore and Tina (Nelson) Knutson. He was baptized and confirmed at Jerico Lutheran Church. John’s faith has been an important part of his life. He attended rural schools in Chickasaw County. John graduated from New Hampton High School in the Class of 1957. In 1962, he was drafted into the US Army. Upon his return home, John began his lifelong farming career in Chickasaw County. John was united in marriage to Kathryn Rosemary Mikes on February 12, 1966. They welcomed their two daughters and made their home in New Hampton. Kathy passed away in 2009. John operated the family’s trucking business for over 30 years, retiring in 2017. John was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church. John’s greatest joy was talking to his two daughters each day and was always there to support them in their journeys.
John is survived by two daughters Amanda Knutson and Emily (Knutson) Dust of Chicago, IL; his sister Donna Jepson of Kimberly, WI; son-in law Omkar Naik and Andrew Dust; granddaughter Maya Knutson Naik; brother-in-law Richard (Lou Ann) Mikes of Sanibel, FL; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings: Norma (Henry) Munson, Oriette (Clarence) Adams, Theodora (Godfrey) Natvig, Stanley (LaVonne) Knutson, Lois (John) Davis, Colleen (Thomas) Pollock and Shirley Knutson; and his brother-in-law Don Jepson.
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So sorry Amanda and Emily we have so many good memories of your dad would take a book to mention them all. He’ s resting with your mom. Our prayers Jim and Linda
Amanda & Emily, My sympathy goes out to you and your family. You can take comfort in knowing he is back with your Mom. He will surely be missed! Prayers, Edna Schwickerath
Amanda and Emily know that we are thinking of you and your family in the loss of your dad.
I’m really going to miss your dad
John was such a gentle, soft-spoken man. He had a sense about him that brought peace and acceptance. The times we spent with Kathy and John were always special. You could feel their love for Amanda and Emily. They were generous in love, time, and support. We will be thinking of and praying for Emily and Amanda and families in this time of grief.
John was truly one of the best people to ever walk this earth! He went out of his way to help and provide for others, and was always so thoughtful and generous. He has treated me like family since the first day I met him way back when, and a piece of him will always remain in my heart. It hurts so bad to lose him, but he is finally pain free and laughing again with the love his life. Much love to you, as you remember your amazing dad. We will always be here for you!
Sending condolences to Amanda and Emily and families. John was such a gentle man, kind, friendly and reserved. He will be missed.
Our deepest Sympathy Amanda ,⁰ Emily & family Your dad was a sweetheart. He would buy whatever our grandkids we selling for school or even boy scout popcorn . First you had to tell him why you were sell it then what was the best kind. Well of course Adian told John his popcorn was all good .John says well should I buy one of each kind and Aidan says no you don’t need to I’ll stop again next year. John and I had a good laugh over that. I’m going to miss his wave coming from town cause I always told him he had that nice looking truck that caught my eye. Rest in peace John!!
We extend our deepest sympathy to the family. John was an understanding boss, as I drove for him for 14 years. I always had a great deal of respect for him. He was always very generous and kind. I certainly will miss him. Sincerely, Bill and Mary May
Deepest sympathy to to John’s family
I remember John’s gentle demeanor and fine sense of humor! He had helped my grandpa, Norman Nelson, on his farm. I remember many times around the kitchen table, laughing and carrying on- John was a jovial and great man. Chris Lane, Missoula, Montana
John was my first cousin. Amanda and Emily, we are so sorry. Your Dad was a specie person. The last time we saw each other, I believe at Godfry Nativg’s funeral, we hugged each other and had a nice visit. John and I are the same age, my birthday being on January 1. We were in the same confirmation class and he was truly a ‘shining star” the evening of the questioning session. You need to know that each time we drive past the farm we wonder how your Dad was doing. NOw we know that he is at peace. Your have been blessed with wonderful parents. Amanda, I recalled this afternoon when your Dad called to tell us about your birth. He was a very proud DAd. Take care and know that we care about you as you grieve the passing of your wonderful DAD. Joanne and Roger Lane
Lonnie worked for Mikes Lines for 29 1/2 years. John was the best boss anyone could have – he was fair, even-tempered, truly cared about the employees. Even after Lonnie started another job, he and John would share a phone call or visit – Lonnie would bring baby Swiss cheese wheels from Prairie Farms and John would often treat him to lunch. He was a good man and will be missed. We will make a donation in memory of John to the Hope Lodge. Lonnie and Vicky Baade
When I was a little girl, John was a fixture at my grandparents’ farm. I adored him. His smile was shy but always generous, and he may have missed his calling as a diplomat (anyone who spent much time in Hanna’s kitchen will understand this). Amanda and Emily, I am so very sorry — please know that you are not alone feeling this loss.
Emily and Amanda, You are in our thoughts and prayers. So sorry for your loss. Dave and Barb Boeding
Amanda & Emily, I am sorry for your loss. John was a great guy! I enjoyed him so much. I know you will miss him, but try to remember all the good times. Jan Hassman
Emily & Amanda – our heartfelt condolences are being sent your way. John was always so kind & caring & so easy to visit with. I’ll always remember your parents at the softball games that Emily & Kiley played together. God Bless you & your families.
John showed such kindness and hospitality, and he had a wonderful sense of humor. For my part, you could not help but try to emulate him as a man and as a person. I am so grateful for the times that we shared. Many thoughts and prayers to you, Amanda and Emily and family, during this time.
Amanda and Emily, my deepest sympathy to you. Your parents were great people, and now they are together again. May your memories of them keep them in your heart.