Ernest W. "Ernie" Knutson, age 97 of Oak Grove, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at his home.

Ernie was born on January 19, 1923 in Lancaster, Minnesota.  At the age of 25, he moved to the farm in Oak Grove where he resided for 72 years until the time of his death.  During that time, he raised four children, many animals, and various crops.  With a very strong work-ethic, Ernie farmed, cut wood, was active active in the local community - where he held office in Oak Grove Township for many years and served as treasurer for Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Francis for 40 years - and also worked full-time, many of these years at Northern Pump.  In his leisure time, Ernie enjoyed fishing, snowmobiling, and traveling.

In addition to his parents, Calmer and Amanda (Vireck) Knutson, Ernie was preceded in death by his wife, Marion; son, Richard (who passed away the day prior to Ernie); grandson, Suttre McWethy; son-in-law, Ted Nelson; sisters, Ruth, Alice, and Vivian; brothers, Carl, Warren, and Clarence.  He is survived by his children, Eileen (Carl) Paige, Marge Nelson, and Julie (Doug) Cross; daughter-in-law, Melanie Worthington; grandchildren, Brian (Jennifer) Paige, Bonnie (Joe) Johnson, Lon Collins, Jake Nelson, Rahina McWethy, and Andy (Alisha) Cross; 8 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; sister, Irene Ratti; also many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3812 229th Avenue NW, St. Francis.  Visitation one hour prior to the service at church (10:00 - 11:00 a.m.)  Interment will take place in West Oak Grove Cemetery, Oak Grove.

Arrangements entrusted to Thurston-DeShaw Funeral Home of Andover (763) 767-7373