Marilyn Knutson
Gillespie | Save
The family of Marilyn Louise Knutson mourns her passing on January 28, 2022.
She was born in Ellsworth, Iowa, on August 2, 1927, to Harold and Melva Sogard. Marilyn was the eldest daughter of twelve children. Her younger siblings remember her fondly as their "other mother", a role that many of her children's friends also attributed to her. Marilyn married Kenneth Knutson, the love of her life, on November 20, 1946, in the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. They shared 74 happy years together raising five devoted and grateful children. Marilyn was a doting wife, a loving mother, and a loyal and generous friend. During WWII Marilyn served as a Cadet Nurse. As an RN she dedicated herself to various positions in hospitals in Indiana and Illinois. She completed her career as a surgical nurse at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield. Characteristically, she also nursed friends, family, and their assorted pets. After retirement, Marilyn volunteered in the hospital gift shop and continued volunteering as a member of Zion Lutheran Church. Special memories were made on the dance floor with her husband, Ken, with her family and friends on her patio, at Lake Lou Yaeger, and at the Litchfield Country Club. Marilyn was a magical multitasker who could cook for a crowd while still attending to the needs of adults, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a devoted parent, grandparent, and great-grandparent. She loved attending innumerable sporting events and school and church functions first supporting her children, then her eight grandchildren, and finally her six great-grandchildren. Her love and caring also extended to her many pets and her garden.
Marilyn is survived by sons Richard (Susan) and Ken, daughters Susan Palsenberger (Larry) and Marcia Holten (Scott), and daughter-in-law Maggie Knutson.
Marilyn is predeceased by her husband Ken and beloved son Ron.
A visitation will be held from 9-11 am on 2-19-2022 at Zion Lutheran Church, 1301 N State, Litchfield, IL. A memorial service follows at the same location at 11 am followed by a luncheon.
The family wishes to thank Evergreen Place Supportive Living and Heritage Health for the care staff provided, and the caring and helpful neighbors on Van Buren, Harrison, and Fisher. You know who you are.
Memorial donations may be made to the St. Francis Hospital Auxiliary, Litchfield, IL, or to the family. Marilyn would appreciate that all who can, please donate blood.
Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyfuneral.com. Kravanya Funeral Home is in charge.
Kravanya Funeral Home
