Kenneth Peter "Skipper" Knudson

The world lost a truly wonderful man Friday, August 7th, 2026, Ken Knudson, a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, faithful friend, and a man who spent his life serving others. Ken proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 32 years and was a Vietnam Veteran. Throughout his military career, he served around the world, making sacrifices to protect the freedoms we hold dear. His commitment to his country was a source of great pride, but his life and legacy extended far beyond his years in uniform. Ken was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Karen, and was previously married BonnieLou, who preceded him in death. He was a loving father and is survived by his children, Lanie, David and his wife Lara, Renee, Mike, Darlene, Jami, and Rick. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, KC, whose memory he carried in his heart. Ken was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather to a multitude of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He cherished his family deeply and treasured the time he spent with them. His love, guidance, stories, laughter, and example will continue to live on through the generations who follow him. He was also a cherished brother, uncle, and friend. Ken is survived by his brother, Raymond and his wife Lenabell, and his sister, Carol and her husband David, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was also a man with a heart for people, especially children. During the holidays, he loved playing Santa, bringing smiles, laughter, and joy to children and families around him. His generosity, however, was not limited to Christmas. Throughout the year, Ken would spend his own money purchasing presents for children because he simply could not bear the thought of a child going without. He gave not because he wanted recognition, but because giving was simply part of who he was. Ken believed in serving his community and giving back. He volunteered with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), served with the local Citizen Patrol, supported his church, and found countless other ways to help those around him. He never sought praise or recognition. When he saw a need, he simply did what he could to help. Ken was a true stand-up citizen and, more importantly, a genuinely good and caring human being. His life was defined not only by his service to his country, but by his devotion to his family, his love for his community, and the countless quiet acts of kindness he gave throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, service, compassion, and faith. Among those who loved him most were his dear best friends, Gracie and Isaac, who held a very special place in his heart. Most importantly, Ken was a follower of Jesus Christ. His faith was an important part of who he was and how he lived his life. Though our hearts are broken by his absence, we find comfort in knowing that Ken is now home with the Lord, where there is no more pain, no more sorrow, and no more suffering. His uniform represented his service to his country, but his heart represented the man he truly was. Ken touched countless lives simply by being himself-by giving, serving, loving, encouraging, and showing kindness to others. His presence made a difference, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who were blessed to know him. His family will miss his voice, his stories, his laughter, his strength, and the love he gave so freely. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren will grow up hearing stories about the man who loved them so dearly and who believed that every child deserved to feel special. Ken's life was a gift, and his memory will be a blessing. I will miss you, Daddy, and so will so many others. But we are grateful for your life, your service, your friendship, your love, and the beautiful legacy of faith and kindness you left behind. Until we meet again, Dad. We love you. We miss you. And we will carry you with us always. Rest peacefully in the arms of Jesus.

Kenneth Peter "Skipper" Knudson

February 23, 1944 - August 7, 2026