Merle Knutson

Merle Knutson, 86, died on Monday, Dec. 4, 2017, at his home, Fillmore Place in Preston, surrounded by friends and family.

Merle Francis Knutson was born on April 13, 1931, in Carrolton Township, Minn., to Ludwig and Edna (Tokvam) Knutson. Merle was the youngest of seven children. He spent his childhood and young adulthood helping his mother and two brothers operate the family farm. Merle loved caring for the farm animals and visiting family and friends.

Following his years spent on the family farm, Merle became a resident of several semi-independent-living homes for the next 40 years.

Merle liked to fish and enjoyed watching motorcycles and tractors. He also enjoyed visiting with farmer friends and women folk. He always looked forward to his birthday parties, in particular his 86th birthday party.

Merle is survived by one sister, Ione Hallum, of Rushford; two nieces; four nephews; and a host of friends and staff, who were his family at Fillmore Place. His friend and guardian, Susan Engen, also survives.

Merle was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Ernest and Edward; three sisters, Lucile, Hazel, and Delores; three brothers-in-law, Emil, Edwin, and Leon; niece, Debra; and many friends that he met during his years in Harmony and Preston, while being a resident under Maple Leaf Services.

A celebration of life service will be 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 12, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lanesboro, with Pastor Kerry Eversole officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church.

Johnson-Riley Funeral Home in Lanesboro is assisting the family with arrangements. To share a condolence with the family, please visit www.rileyfuneralhomes.com.