David Robert Knutson

Remembering David Robert Knutson , a man of faith and faithful witness. Now in the loving and saving arms of his Lord Jesus. To HIM be the Glory.

David Robert Knutson, 69, of Champlin, MN, was embraced by his Heavenly Father on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 surrounded by his family. David always made an incredible impact on many lives.

David was born in International Falls on July 25, 1956 to Robert and Helen Knutson, He was an 1974 Graduate of Falls High School and attended Rainy River Jr College. He is survived by his faithful and loving wife, Julia (Beyak) Knutson and his four sons , Ryan, Robert(Tiffany), Jordan, and Christopher (Fumi) who continue his legacy. He was blessed with three grandchildren, Lydia, Hazel, and Gianna. He has several nieces and nephews. Rainy, his therapy dog was his faithful companion. David has two sisters, Karen Jornlin-Stolp (Mark), and Cheryl Jean(Stephen) Rutkowsky. Both parents have preceded him in death.

He was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church in his youth and as well at churches where he lived. David loved going to Bible studies in the Champlin area and a Men's Bible Study in International Falls with his brother-in-law Steve when he was visiting there.

David was the ultimate fisherman's son and knew all the great fishing spots in Rainy Lake. He loved fishing, sailing, snowmobiling, boating, and four wheeling. David spent endless hours at Carson Lupie rink. His Dad built a hockey rink in his backyard for extra practice sessions. Hockey was his game. He won several hockey awards at summer hockey camps. David's Minnesota Midget Hockey Team took the State Championship in his 1972 Season.

David was a true salesman and entrepreneur. His favorite comment was, "Good things are happening." He loved the challenge of being his own boss and also sharing the Gospel with customers and clients.

"When Heaven Touched My Pain," was David's comfort song as well as ,"To Dream the Impossible Dream." Minutes before his passing, his son Robert called him from his home in Birmingham, Alabama,. Even though David had not been able to speak, Robert ministered to his dad. Robert called to talk with his dad and thank him for his wisdom and love. Robert honored David with heartfelt praise and thankfulness from lessons David had taught his sons. Ironically minutes before he passed, we believe he understood Robert's words of love. Robert ushered his father"s last minutes with the worship song: "Worthy Is Your Name." David was trying to mouth the words to this precious song. And then he entered Heaven. We believe the presence of the Lord was with our family. Ryan, David's oldest son, helped carry his Father to the Funeral home vehicle. He left us with great and true hope that we will all see him again in Heaven…but our hearts are sad as we miss him. One of the last things David said was: "We walk by faith not by sight!!!! I am healed, delivered, and set free!! I shall live and not die and proclaim right the works of the Lord!!!"

A private memorial was held by the immediate family. Condolences may be made to: Julia Knutson, 11823 Sumter Court North, Champlin, MN.55316.