(Ret) LTC James “Jim” Edward Knutson

After a courageous battle with Acute Myelomonocytic Leukemia (AMML), Jim Knutson took his final breaths on July 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and three daughters.

Jim was born on December 5, 1957, in Minot, North Dakota, to Theodore Raymond Knutson and Agnes (Ritter) Light (formerly Knutson). He was raised in Mohall, ND, where he was a standout athlete and graduated with the Class of 1976.

He competed in football and track at both the University of North Dakota and Minot State University, where he completed his degree. Jim went on to teach history and coach multiple sports in Dunseith, ND.

In 1983, Jim enlisted in the United States Army, where he proudly served his country for 34 years, 12 years active duty and 22 years in the Army National Guard. He was part of an elite group of service members who earned the Green Beret (Special Forces) tab, Ranger tab, and Airborne badge. He rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and served in numerous missions across the globe.

In June 1991, he married Ronda (Davis) Knutson. Upon his honorable discharge from active duty, they relocated to Minot with their daughter, Dagny, to be closer to his two eldest daughters, Jamie and Kelcie. Jim used the GI Bill to return to school and earned his nursing degree from Minot State. He went on to serve as a skilled and compassionate nurse for almost two decades, until his retirement due to 100% disability.

Jim had a deep love for travel. He explored much of the world during his military career but especially treasured his leisure trips to Germany, Spain, and, most of all, a family trip to Oaxaca City, Mexico.

He was brave, determined, and highly accomplished, but he was also gentle, charismatic, and had an infectious laugh. His memory was impeccable, especially for sports stats (his own and everyone else's), and a deep, unwavering love for his family.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years, Ronda; daughters Jamie (Jeremy) Bonczyk, Kelcie (Nick) Hoes, and Dagny (David) Moreno; grandchildren Caleb, Sylviana, Amelia, Matias, and Naomi; sister Jackie (Joel) Zeltinger, brother Allan (Cheryl) Knutson, and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, uncles, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore Knutson and Agnes Light; his brother, Paul Knutson; in-laws Ron and Georgia Davis; and brother-in-law Stacey Davis.

A casual Celebration of Life will be held at the Mandan Eagles Club in Mandan, ND, on August 9, 2025 from 2pm-4pm. A formal burial with full military honors will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.