James Robert Knutson was born on February 10, 1955 in Wadena, Minnesota the son of Robert and Virginia (Hertzberg) Knutson. When he was a young boy his family moved from Wadena to Roseville, Minnesota where he attended and graduated from Kellogg High School in 1974. He attended St. Paul Technical College to become a certified diesel mechanic. He worked many years as a mechanic and shop foreman, 17 of them for Northstar Truck Dealership. On September 9, 1977 he was united in marriage to Theresa Tacik and together they raised two children. They made their home in St. Paul for 17 years and then moved to Stillwater, Minnesota for 6 years before moving to Star Prairie, Wisconsin. Jim's fondest times were: spending time with his family and granddaughters at the cabin, cooking gourmet meals, hunting and fishing, restoring vintage tractors, and riding his motorcycle. His creative spirit allowed him to engineer new ways of doing things and many sought his expertise. Jim passed away at his home on Monday, December 24, 2012 at the age of 57 years.
His father preceded him in death. Left to mourn are his wife Theresa; son Kurt Knutson; daughter Venessa DeCosse (Todd) and two grandchildren Regan and Keira. He also leaves his mother Virginia; sisters Barb Anderson, Joan Mullen and Patty Knutson; brother Bob Knutson as well as other relatives and friends.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday, December 29, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. from the Williamson-White Funeral Home Chapel. There will be a time of visitation the hour prior to the service.