Swede, age 87, passed away on October 31, 2024, in Colorado Springs, CO. A dedicated family man, he is survived by his daughters, Erica B. Knutson and Karstin L. Knutson Lysne; his grandson, Joshua R. Lysne; and sons-in-laws, Duncan Crebbin and Tom Lysne. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tony and Clara Knutson; his brother, Roger Knutson; and his wife, Charlotte B. Knutson, the love of his life. Swede’s legacy of love, loyalty, and adventures will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him.

A memorial service in his honor was held on Saturday, November 23rd, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Remembering Swede:   On the 17^th of May 1973 a gathering was held at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Restaurant located on 8^thStreet and what is now the Midland Expressway (Highway 24 By-Pass) to examine the interest in an organization of people of Norwegian backgrounds or interest. The crowd appeared to be mostly of the WWII veteran era and well-dressed.  I was alone so I joined a table of handsome younger people that included Paul and Ruth Wiig and Char and Swede Knutson.  It was the beginning of a friendship and Fjellheim Lodge 6-107 Lodge, Sons of Norway.   He has been a member of Sons of Norway since July 22, 1955, and when he received his 65th membership anniversary pin in 2020, he said he would have had a 75-year pin had they counted his time as a youth member! – KR

Swede was the prototype of the idealized Norwegian.  He was tall, strong and quiet in manner.  If we were ever to have a float, he would have stood at the front of it in a Viking costume to represent the Viking ideal.  Fortunately for all of us, he was a kind, gentle person who served others.  Not being a social or political person, he nevertheless faithfully accompanied Char who as Lodge President attended many events in the several other Colorado Lodges and at conventions.  His kindness and pleasant mannerisms gained many friends for our Lodge in the larger organization.  As a sportsman, he was an accomplished bow-hunter and competed well with his friend Everett Snead in pitching horseshoes.

He was a faithful worker who volunteered to do the most difficult and less tasteful jobs to spare others.  He washed pots and pans at the Lutefisk Dinners at Benet Hill for many years.  As Chairman of the Fjellheim Management Corporation, he spent countless hours of labor to modernize the Lodge property to improve its usefulness and value.

Through all of this, he was a constant, reliable friend who could be depended upon for good advice and counsel.  We are sad at his passing, but remembering his kindness and goodness, we will smile and feel a glow.    Lovingly submitted by Ole and Joan Bakken.