Thomas N. (Tom) Knutson, 84

Thomas N. (Tom) Knutson, age 84, of Owatonna, passed away on Monday, July 27, at Owatonna Allina Hospital.

He was born on August 22, 1941, in Warren, MN, to Henry (Kitten) and Jennie Viola Knutson. Tom graduated from Warren High School in 1959 and went on to college, graduating from Luther College with a B.S. degree, and earned a Master's degree in Biology from St. Cloud State University. He taught in Iowa for two years before going on to teach in the Osseo School District for 24 years.

On June 8, 1968, he married Sheryl White in Rhinelander, WI. Two daughters, Sarah and Andrea, were born to this union.

Tom was known for his kind, gentle demeanor and his dry sense of humor. He was an avid puzzler, a Scrabble player, and a cribbage player. As his health declined, rides to nowhere were a daily routine after his noon naps.

Tom is survived by his children, Sarah (Matt) Hoogerland of Middleton, WI, and Andrea (Mel) Owen of Overland Park, KS; grandsons Drew and Erik Hoogerland and Jacob and Kyle Owen; brothers-in-law Jim White and Steve Estrem; sisters-in-law Cindy White and Annette Estrem; nieces and nephews; and partner of 12 years, Sharol Tamburro, of Owatonna.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Jon; sister, Barbara Robinson; infant grandson, Nathaniel Owen; and his wife, Sheryl Knutson.

Special thanks to the four pastors at Trinity Lutheran Church who made several visits to both home and Mayo Clinic-St. Mary's Hospital and Owatonna Hospital.

Tom gave the ultimate gift of his body to Mayo Clinic.

At Tom's request, no funeral or memorial service will be held.