Daniel K. Kittilson

Daniel “Dan” Kenneth Kittilson, age 79, passed away at his home in rural Perham, MN, on January 3, 2026.

Dan was born on January 12, 1946, to Kittil and Hazel (Melbye) Kittilson. He had two older sisters as he was the baby of the family. According to his sisters, Dan was doted on by his parents and allowed to get away with almost anything.

He grew up on a farm near Hitterdal, MN, and completed high school there as well. He went on to get his Bachelor's degree from Moorhead State University in 1968 and Master’s degree from Mankato State University in 1976, both in education.

He married Ruby Henrickson, on December 29, 1967, and recently celebrated their 58th anniversary. They moved to Staples, MN, in 1968 where he started his teaching job as a physical education teacher and taught there until his retirement. They raised their son and daughter in Staples. Dan dedicated his life to working with children, providing physical education to kindergarten through second graders and to children in special education. He was the Special Olympics coach in Staples for years. He highly valued education, which he instilled in his children and grandchildren.

Dan and Ruby moved to Park Rapids, MN, and achieved their dream of living on a lake in 1994. They lived on Little Sand Lake for 25 years and recently moved to the Perham area to live closer to family.

His grandchildren were very special to him, and he cherished any time he could spend with them. He loved to fish all year long, hunt, and watch Minnesota sports teams.

After retiring, his passion became lake preservation. In their time living in lakes country, he served as Little Sand Lake Association president, Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations president, and Minnesota Coalition of Lakes Associations president.

Dan is survived by his wife, Ruby; his son, Jeffrey (Candace), West Fargo; his daughter, Theresa Howe (Michael), Ottertail; his grandchildren, Derek Kittilson and Kaiya Howe. He is also survived by his sister, Karen Lutz (Jim). He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Joyce.

Visitation will be 1:00-2:00 p.m. with a Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Bethany Lutheran Church, 100 3rd Ave, Nevis, MN, 56467. Inurnment will be at the church columbarium. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family.