Edward "Jack" John Knutson

Edward "Jack" J. Knutson, age 92, of Maple Grove, passed away Sunday, March 20, 2022.  Preceded in death by his loving parents Edward and Lillian Knutson.

Born July 5, 1929 in Duluth, MN, Jack graduated from Central HS in 1947, and enrolled at UMD.  While enrolled at UMD, Jack was an active trombone player in marching and dance bands.

After graduating in 1951, he enlisted in the US Navy, stationed in Cherry Point, North Carolina. When granted weekend leave, Jack would jump on a cargo plane headed for Minneapolis and hitchhike to Duluth where he would visit the love of his life, Jean Pagenkopf. The two would marry on August 8, 1953. Jack and Jean were married for 68 years, and his love for her was endearing.

Jack was discharged from the Navy in 1954 and the newlyweds moved to Hoyt Lakes to start a family. During this time Jack worked for Erie Mining. After a brief stint in Ohio, the couple and their three children made the permanent move to Minneapolis in 1964 – settling in Crystal. Soon after, the family of five became a family of six “J’s”. In Minneapolis, Jack worked for McQuay from 1964 to 1978. He then transitioned to Abbott Northwestern Hospital where he worked until his retirement in 1993.

Jacks creativity and imagination was recognizable in everything he did. He was the ultimate fun dad who found the most joy spending time with his family and friends. Jack never turned down the opportunity to build a massive sledding hill in the front yard, put up a popcorn stand, build elaborate tree houses, and enjoyed creating fun ways to hand out Halloween candy. He was always creating new gadgets and was known by all as the most energetic, entertaining, and “jack” of all trades.

Jack was treasured for his sense of humor and quick wit which was second to none, along with his willingness to lend a hand.  The neighbors looked forward to his annual trombone playing of Auld Lang Syne on the front porch each New Years Eve.

Jack and Jean settled in their retirement home in Maple Grove in 2000.  The two enjoyed many years of traveling to Florida in the winter where they created a 2nd home with a cherished group of new friends and golf buddies. Along with his love of music, Jack was an avid reader of WWII books, and he could recite every war battle and those involved along with the outcome from memory. His collection of signed books by members of fighting squadrons was something he was very proud of. His woodworking talents were incredible. A lifelong hobby that culminated with his Blue Ribbon for his horserace game at the MN State Fair.

Jack is survived by his wife of 68 years, Jean along with their children Jeffrey (Patty) Knutson, Jerald (Laurie) Knutson, Jennifer (Jan Mohrfeld) Lenhart, and Julie (Ken) Lambert along with Grandchildren Tamara Knutson, Jack Knutson, Anna Knutson, Joe (Nikki) Lenhart, Sam Lenhart, Mitch (Mady) Lambert, Ava Lambert and Kurt Lambert.

He is also survived by his sister Janet Conley and brother Gary Knutson along with many close nieces and nephews. Jack, because of his outgoing personality had many dear friends, all who will miss his many jokes and comedy skits.

Funeral Service 1 PM on Thursday, March 31st, 2022 at Calvary Lutheran Church, 7520 Golden Valley Rd. Visitation one hour prior at church.

Private Interment at Ft. Snelling at a later date.