John C. Knutson, 81

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.