Ken M. Knutson, age 93, of Grand Rapids, MN, passed away Friday, August 4, 2023, at Bigfork Valley Villa and Nursing Home.

Ken was born in 1930 to Leonard and Effie Knutson in Roshalt, WI. He grew up in the area and graduating from the local high school where he told everyone that he graduated with straight A's; since the high school burnt, no one could prove him wrong.

After high school, Ken was drafted into the U.S. Army and served time during the Korean Conflict. He was united in marriage to Lorraine Libby on November 6, 1954, together they made their home in Minneapolis, MN where he worked for Northern Ordinance Custom Tool. The family moved to Duluth in 1972, where Ken owned and operated Ray's Home Supply and Auto Terria Carwash. In October of 1978, they moved to Grand Rapids where he was employed at the Blandin Paper Mill until his retirement in 1994. Ken and Lorraine then became snowbirds and wintered every year in Yuma, AZ until they made the move permanent in 2006. Ken returned to Grand Rapids in 2021.

Ken was a lifetime member of the Grand Rapids VFW Post 1720 and past member of the Loyal Order of Moose. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing catch with his grandchildren, and was always fixing and tinkering with things. Ken was always willing to help anyone in need and had a big heart.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Lorraine; daughter, Janice; and all his siblings. Ken is survived by his son, Jeffrey (Rene) Knutson; daughter, Linda Knutson; many grandchildren, several great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and extended family and friends.

Visitation will be Thursday, August 10, 2023, at Rowe Funeral Home beginning at 12:00 and lasting until the 1:00 PM memorial service. Burial will be at Itasca Calvary with full military honors. Mary Shideler officiating.

Ken's family would like to extend a big thank you to Bigfork Valley Villa and  Nursing Home for the excellent care he received while he was there.