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Charles V. "Chuck" Knuthson

Charles Knuthson Obituary

KNUTHSON, Charles V. ''Chuck''

June 21, 1946 -
Feb 27, 2008

Chuck passed away at his home in Roseville on February 27, 2008, after a courageous three-year battle with colon cancer. He was born in Chico, Calif., to Alvin and Eileen Knuthson. Chuck was raised in Paradise, Calif., and in 1969 moved to Roseville, Calif.

Chuck is survived by his loving soulmate and wife Paula; his five children, Cynthia (Wayne) Christensen, Jennifer (Jeff) Harris, Todd (Amina) Knuthson, Jeremy Knuthson, and Bethany Knuthson; 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild-to-be and the mother of his children, Merle Thompson. Chuck is also survived by his brothers Richard (Brenda) Knuthson, Patrick (Connie) Knuthson and his sister Patrice (Bruce) Snyder; in-laws George and Joan Linsley, sister-in-law Valorie Linsley and many nephews and nieces.

Chuck served in the U.S. Army for four years and was a Vietnam Veteran. He was specially trained in Morse Code Interception. Chuck was instrumental in the development and implementation of the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Sacramento. Chuck served with the Roseville Police Department with distinction for over 29 years. His first day as a police officer in 1973, was the day the bombs exploded in the Roseville rail yards. After 20 years as a Roseville Police Captain he retired in 2002. Chuck earned a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master's Degree in Business Administration. He graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia and also was a Command College graduate.

Chuck enjoyed being a Roseville and District 54 Little League umpire for many years. He also was a member of the Blue Knights law enforcement motorcycle club. Chuck enjoyed fishing and camping with his family.

Chuck's true passion was genealogy and he was a renowned speaker both locally, regionally and nationally. For the past 14 years Chuck instructed genealogy classes at Sierra and American River colleges. Chuck was an active member of many local, state, and national genealogical and professional organizations. He served seven years as president of the Sacramento German Genealogy Society and was currently vice president of the national organization Federation of Genealogy Societies. Chuck volunteered weekly at the Sacramento LDS Family History Center. His favorite pastime was researching in libraries and visiting cemeteries.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Monday March 3, 2008, at Lambert's Funeral Home, 400 Douglas Blvd., Roseville. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. at the LDS church, 211 Estates Dr., Roseville. Graveside service to follow at Roseville Cemetery.

In memory of Chuck, donations can be made to Kaiser Permanente Hospice Program, 2025 Morse Ave., Sacramento, CA 95625 or your favorite charity.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Mar. 1, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Knuthson

50 Entries

Jennifer

January 2, 2009

Dad,
It's a brand New Year, and as I sit in quiet reflection on this past year and the one to come, my thoughts turn to you. I miss you. I miss the times we spent together, and the times we should have. I miss the comforting sound of your voice, and the way you call me sis. I miss your goofy antics, anything for a laugh. I miss your visits, and your excitement as you told me stories of your genealogy research. I miss the times we spent in unspoken communication and quiet contemplation. I miss you! While I miss you being here physically, I have found you more present in my life since your passing. I have felt you near when I need comfort. I have felt you chuckle when life gets comical. I have felt your admiration at the kids’ performances and achievements. I have felt you direct me when I need direction. I look forward to more opportunities to feel you in my life. That is what I will look for this coming year, and I am sure I will find them.

Merle Loomis-Thompson

December 29, 2008

Yo! ! Pop-Pop. Christmas has come and gone and now the family looks to a new year. It was our children’s first year without their Dad, and as you can see they struggled with their loss. Jenn gave each of us a small police bear for Christmas along with a small book with a police insignia. In the book the families will note where "Bumby Bear" has traveled. You will go on many excursions with six families. Jeremy is away snowboarding and I received a pic this morning of you riding in the front seat of the Durango, and you are buckled up!
For Christmas, I finally made the jean (denim) patch quilts for the kids. I made them out of your old jeans and pairs from the kids when they were young and teens. Each one in the family is represented and pieced together in a quilt that will last two or three decades. The family quilt is my form of genealogy for now.
2009 will be what we make of it and my prayer is the family will find strength and joy. We continue to look for promptings from you.
Your friend, Merle

Todd Knuthson

December 21, 2008

Dad,
This has been the hardest year of my life. There has been many times I,ve pondered and thought WWDD. What Would Dad Do. I diddnt realize how much I relied on your advice both with family and buisness. Not an hour goes by that I dont think of you. Im still not used to not having my dad to lean on. I still call your cell to listen to your voice. The boys are growing so fast, but you already know that. You told me that you would check on us from time to time. Ill be honest, I havent felt your warmth or presence for quite a while now. So, maybe the geneology can wait until after the holidays because you have some rounds to do. Were hopefully going to Az to the in laws for Christmas, I havent seen them in over a year. I might be a mess, so Ill need you there. I miss you sooo much.
Say hi to Gpa and Gma for me, and Gma loomis, Gma Hemmingway, and Aunt Sissy.
Love, your #1 Son,
Todd Charles Knuthson

Bethany Knuthson

December 20, 2008

Dear Dad,
Cancer is said to be the "loving disease". Although loosing someone is never easy, I had the opportunity to know of your illness, and tell you how very much I love you.
I think about you every single day.
Being a member of the LDS church, I know exactly where you are. I miss you like crazy, but I know that you are OK. I know that someday we will be together again.
Until then, I will treasure the memories we have. Those will carry me through this world.
FAMILIES ARE FOREVER...
Love your LIL RED CABOOSE,
Bethany

Tom and Jeannine Hoffman

March 31, 2008

I sorrow over the passing of Chuck...and somehow I don't think he would be pleased with the knowing. My husband and I worked with Chuck in criminal justice. After retirement I took Chuck's Sierra College course in Genealogy. What a fine, inspired person! A real Renaissance Man. We'll remember.

Merle Loomis-Thompson

March 23, 2008

Charles, Chuck, Dad, Chucky Poo, Bumbie Bear, these are a few of your life long names. You have been my good friend for 55 years. We shared five children, fourteen near perfect grand children and 30 foster children and many many years of wonderful memories. Though we divorced we stayed close and I'm thankful for that. I would not have wanted to miss the dance, even when pain was part of life. Now, help me continue to complete the Loomis and Knuthson genealogy. I'll listen and look for your promptings, and verify, verify, verify.
I miss you, Merle

Michael Lacopo

March 14, 2008

Having been out of the country for the last few weeks, I was shocked to learn of Chuck's passing today. We met in Sacramento in 2004 when I spoke at the NGS Conference and I have considered him a friend ever since. Anytime I spoke or attended a genealogical function, I always kept my eye out for Chuck. I have seen other postings say the same thing - he was just a great guy and a joy to be around. He was knowledgeable and an amazing researcher, but he was always very approachable. I regret I didn't have as much time getting to know him. He will be missed by many.

Tina Vickery

March 8, 2008

I had the pleasure of meeting Chuck at the USGenWeb
Project's track of lectures at the Federation of
Genealogical Societies conference in Boston in 2006. He,
as a member of USGenWeb Project (CAGenWeb Project), gave
the keynote address at the luncheon for the USGenWeb
Project members and attendees which celebrated our 10 year
anniversary. He represented the USGenWeb Project very
well.

Chuck was a very personable and knowledgable USGenWeb
Project volunteer and speaker for the genealogical
community as a whole.

On behalf of the USGenWeb Project, I offer our most
sincerest condolences to his family and to all those in
the genealogical community that benefited from his
knowledge, involvement and friendship.

Tina Vickery
National Coordinator
USGenWeb Project

Laurie Jones Dillier

March 7, 2008

Dear Paula,

I was so sorry to read of Chuck's passing. I had know idea he had been ill. I am sorry I missed his service.Chuck was a wonderful man and such a icon of humanity for Roseville. It is evident he touched many lives.
I would love to see or talk with you when the time is right.
I think about you often and tried to contact you to see if you could join me for a visit with Marialice. Carol and Cindy last month. Perhaps we could do that in the future.
With love and sympathy,

Laurie Jones Dillier & Family

Ray & Karen Clifford

March 6, 2008

Chuck was so honest we could play checkers with him over the phone, so thoughtful of others that he changed us by including us as his friends, and obviously so molded by his life's experiences that while he was not overly concerned about his appointment with death, he didn't want his family and friends to be distressed. We are comforted in his life well-lived, and knowing that while he may be absent from us, he is smiling among friends and family elsewhere and likely finding answers to "who is related to whom." Yet we extend a hug to his near and extended family with tender sympathy. How deeply you must feel the loss of one so dear.

Deborah Deal

March 4, 2008

My sympathy to the family. Chuck was a wonderful gentleman who was so kind to everyone. I always enjoyed taking Chuck's classes at conference. He will certainly be missed.

Dowena Devey

March 4, 2008

As well as being a wonderful teacher, Chuck had time to be kind and attentive to everyone. He was always there to lend a hand no matter how menial the task. His love of Genealogy was apparent, but mostly, he was just a great man. I will miss him.

Pat McIntyre

March 3, 2008

I was fortunate to attend a number of Chuck's sessions at NGS and FGS Conferences, and was always impressed with his excellent syllabus material and the efficient manner in which he did his presentations. He always started on time, allowed time at the end for questions, and finished on time--a true professional.

He always spoke to me when we met at conferences and I will cherish my memories of him. Yes, his smile was terrific!

My sympathy to his wife and children and their families.

Taffy Couts

March 3, 2008

To the Knuthson Family, my deepest sympathies. As a fellow speaker Chuck was always on hand to make sure, I never needed anything, and always encouraged all of us to do our best to communicate our skills to our students. I will miss his smile, his concern, and his knowledge. May God Bless, and now you will have all those unanswered questions answered!

Sheila Benedict

March 3, 2008

I am very sad to learn of Chuck's passing. We had been California research colleagues and I always referred clients to him when they needed his expertise. We lectured together and I thoroughly enjoyed the privilege of his friendship. He will be missed.
Your friend, Sheila Benedict

Eloween Ivey

March 3, 2008

Chuckles, you will be missed. You were always there for me when I needed a hug or a helping hand. May the Lord comfort your family at this time with the knowledge that you have been greeted by your family on the other side--this is not the end, just the close of a chapter. Love you!

Melinda Kashuba

March 3, 2008

My heartfelt sympathies to Paula and family. Years ago we all shared a dinner together following a national conference. I was struck with how much Chuck loved his children and how proud he was of them all. I have had the pleasure of knowing Chuck since I moved to Northern California nine years ago. He was one of the first people I met while doing genealogy up here. We lectured at regional and national conferences together and he was always willing to help me by sharing his projector, running extra copies of handouts (many times without being asked--he just saw and need and filled it--unasked), or fixing a computer glitch. He was patient, good to his students, and a wonderful lecturer. I am certain that I learned much more from him than he ever learned from me. The talkshow host David Frost many years ago used to ask his audience "Who would you like to be stuck sitting next to on an airplane?" Without hestitation I would say "Chuck Knuthson" because I know our conversation would be wide-ranging, intellectually stimulating, and just plain fun! I'll miss you, Chuck. Thank you for all your service toward furthering the cause of genealogy in the public forum.

Virginia Kysh

March 3, 2008

I was one of many who admired and loved Chuck. We met at UGA institutes's class on Teaching Genealogy. He inspired me to go on and teach too. Thank you for sharing him and letting him touch so many lives. May the Lord bless you and keep you.

Jeremy, Dad, and Todd (A's/Yankees!sweet)

March 3, 2008

Brother Richard, Charles, and Todd Knuthson

March 3, 2008

Carolyn Ybarra

March 2, 2008

Coming into a full room at a big genealogical conference where I didn't know many people, I would see Chuck's smile across the room or hear his laugh, and feel at home. I will miss this beautiful human being. My thoughts are with his family during your time of loss.

Jim Beidler

March 2, 2008

Just as so many others have been saying, Chuck was a role model of a gentleman in all his pursuits. The genealogical community has lost "one of the good guys."

Pam Boyer

March 2, 2008

Chuck and I shared two common interests--law enforcement service and genealogy. I loved his exuberant laugh and the joy with which he lived his life and served others in every way. He and Paula always welcomed guests into their home and shared their lovely California countryside. There's just no one else like Chuck, and conferences won't be the same without his bear hugs and big grin.
In honor of the good life Chuck lived, may friends now encircle Paula and all of Chuck's family with loving care and prayers. We love you, Paula.

2004 Coloma - Chuck & Paula with genie friends

March 2, 2008

Rick Sayre

March 2, 2008

Chuck touched a great many lives and served the genealogical community with great passion. He will be missed by his many friends. My sincerest condolences to Paula and all of his family.

Joanne Burkett

March 2, 2008

I just heard of Chuck's passing and was just shocked, to say the least. I knew Chuck both as a genealogist and as a police captain. As a newspaper reporter, I once had the pleasure of writing a story about his growing genealogical career. However, I had not seen him in recent years and didn't know he was ill.
I can't believe we have lost such a vibrant and fine man. My heart goes out to his wife and family, and all who loved him.
Go with God, Chuck.

Chuck at FGS 2001 PMC dinner, Iowa

March 2, 2008

FGS 2001 APG Luncheon

March 2, 2008

Todd Knuthson

March 2, 2008

I miss you already so much. We have had many talks aready and it comforts me to know that I can chat with you whenever I want. Im happy that your geneology family has a podium to express their thoughts, as not everyone can make the services. I had a privledge to attend and film dads last German seminar. I was moved beyond measure the amount of knowledge and ability to communicate what he knew to the class. I wanted to share that with my family who had not experienced it. It brings me joy to know that he is with his passed family and all the gen questions left unanswered are answered. I want to keep in touch with his gen family. It was important to him and me. I love you Dad. We will be together again someday.

Jeri Steele

March 2, 2008

Chuck was fantastic genealogical speaker and an exceptional person. The Dallas Genealogical Society was saddened by the news of his passing. Just last March he presented a top notch all-day seminar. I worked with Chuck on the Genealogical Speakers Guild board and was very impressed by his caring and sharing. I will miss him!

Loretto Szucs

March 2, 2008

Chuck had a rare combination of knowledge, skill, professionalism, wit and wisdom - and the incredible kindness to share those traits with so many. May God bless and console his family and may his legacy of goodness continue to inspire future generations.

Paula Stuart-Warren

March 2, 2008

Chuck was a wonderful friend and he brightened a room just by being there. He also worked for me on occasion and his genealogy work product was beyond exemplary. His family and friends have lost a special shining light. I am privileged to have had him in my life. Special hugs to Paula from Minnesota Paula

Judi Hansen

March 2, 2008

Chuck holds a special place in my list of Genealogy friends. He was a courteous gentleman, always willing help and not waiting to be asked even at the end of very long days. He was willing to share his understaning of genealogy topics and methods in meetings, face to face, and via emails. I will miss his cheerful smile, his friendly greetings, his excellent presentations, and the advice he was willing to give. The Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy, and National conferences will always remind me of times we shared. His tremendous concern and expense of very limited energy to see that his course for SLIG 2008 on Western States would carry on when he was unable to come is a prime example of his dedication and devotion.
May his family be comforted in their memories of this generous man. I am richer for having known him.

Diane Gravel

March 2, 2008

Chuck was such a kind and thoughtful man, a very special person. He will be greatly missed by his genealogy "family."

Marsha Wise

March 2, 2008

Chuck will be missed. He was a very special man, very giving of himself. I knew Chuck through Root Cellar Genealogical Society.

My sympathies to his family. May you gain strength in knowing how many lives Chuck touched.

Lynita Tate

March 2, 2008

I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Marjorie Sholes

March 1, 2008

The Gift of time we cherish.
The gift of life goes fast.
The gift of Love will never end as long as memories last.
I will always remember Chuck because of his infectious smile. You couldn't help but smile in return.

Wendy Elliott

March 1, 2008

Chuck served the genealogical community throughout the state and nation, always with a smile and encouragement for others. Whenever anyone needed help for anything, Chuck stepped up and offered his services and never expected anything in return. He served with me on the California State Genealogical Alliance Board of Directors in the 1990s and again on the Federation of Genealogical Societies board of directors in the 2000s. Both times, whenever I needed help, I always knew Chuck was backing me. He will be missed by all of us, but he leaves a great record of service behind.
Chuck will be missed, and we hope his family knows how much we all love him. Wendy Elliott, President, Federation of Genealogical Societies

Christine Green

March 1, 2008

Chuck was a wonderful genealogy speaker and a great guy. He will be greatly missed by myself and other members of the local genealogy community.
Chris Green
SMCGS Program Chair

David E. Rencher

March 1, 2008

It was my pleasure to have known Chuck and to have associated with him in the genealogical community. My prayers are with his family at this time, may you find comfort and peace in your hour of loss.

Barbara Edkin

March 1, 2008

Whenever Chuck suggested I try a new path to a solution, I did so trusting his evaluation of my work. He was an honorable and honest man, and the world will be less without him in it. I pray his family (including his genealogical family) will remember the laughter and joy his life brought.

Marilyn Larson

March 1, 2008

Chuck certainly will be missed! He was the Best speaker for genealogy societies! My sympathy to the family. I have a neat memory of Chuck & Paula holding hands and looking at each other lovingly at the NGS Conference that was held in Sacramento a few years ago.

Jana Broglin

March 1, 2008

Chuck was such a dynamic force behind any project in which he was involved. Serving with him on the board of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, I saw a man who worked hard -- not because he had to do so, but because he was Chuck. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Martha Henderson

March 1, 2008

Chuck's passing is a loss to all. He was a joy to know and work with on the Federation of Genealogical Societies' board of directors. Chuck always had a smile even when faced with problems. He always tried to find a solution that would work out best for everyone. May God bless and keep his family during this sad time.

Joshua Taylor

March 1, 2008

I first met Chuck at a UGA Conference in Salt Lake City and quickly realized what an incredible person he was. His knowledge and excellent expression allowed him to communicate with anyone. He will be missed at genealogical conferences and other events throughout the country, as his positive attitude and contagious smile were well known traits. Thank you Chuck - for teaching all of us the importance of a positive attitude and a smile.

Christine Rose

March 1, 2008

Chuck was so very friendly, and had many friends. He will be very much missed. My husband and I send our deepest sympathies to his family.

Cath Trindle

March 1, 2008

Chuck was everyone's friend. He stepped in whenever help was needed. Even those times he seemed too tired to continue, his concern was for others and what they needed. I will miss him as will the genealogical community throughout California and the US.

Chuck with 'Mama Chris' Lowe in Ft. Wayne

March 1, 2008

Chuck at Fort Wayne, Indiana, August 2007

Mark Lowe

March 1, 2008

What a wonderful gentleman! We have loss a true American hero and very special friend. Chuck was one of a kind and his influence will be around for a long time. I will always remember his laugh and big smile, especially when he was talking to family members while we were at genealogical conferences. May God bless each of you in the loss of this family member and friend. God certainly blessed us by letting Chuck being a part of our lives.

Starr, Randy and Hailey Campbell

March 1, 2008

Chuck will truly be missed by many. His smile could light up a room, and we loved joking around with him.He was a great man and we loved him dearly. Hailey will always remember him anytime she "eats her vegetables" as he told her to do at every genealogical conference we atteded together. He and his family have been in our prayers for a long time and we pray that the Lord will bless and comfort his family at this time of loss.

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