Danny Alwood Monson

Danny Monson passed away June 17, 2020 at his home surrounded by loved ones after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Danny Alwood “Lutefisk” Monson was born March 9, 1952 in Minneapolis to Kathleen Johnson (Monson).

Dan grew up and lived most of his life in Bemidji. As a child, he had many fond memories of time spent in Puposky on the “farm” with family. Dan joined the Army after graduating Bemidji High School. He was known and loved by many in the community he called home.  Known by many as “Big Dan” as much for the size of his heart and magnanimous spirit as for his physical stature. Those who knew him, knew of his hospitality and his abilities in the kitchen; cooking, canning, smoking fish and meat.  Dan was in his element behind the stove.  Over the holidays, many in Bemidji know Dan as the guy who made the best lefse in town that graced many a Thanksgiving and Christmas table, a tradition he passed on to his children.

Dan loved spending time in the outdoors. Hunting, fishing and exploring the world of nature.

At home, when not in the kitchen, you would find him with his nose in a book or tinkering in the garage.  He had many incredibly artistic gifts, he enjoyed creating art while sketching, painting, woodburning and building things.

Dan married Gail Bakke in March 1988. Family was the cornerstone of Dan’s life, both his elders and his peers, but especially his children and grandchildren. He was a very proud and loving father to Norris, Jillian, Kellie and Alexander. He would bend anyone’s ear who would listen to him talk of his kids and grandkids. He loved being a Dad and Grandpa.

Dan is survived by his wife, Gail and his children; Norris (Alex) of Portland, Oregon, Jillian (Gabe Baudeck) of Bemidji, Kellie (Nate Cole) of Bemidji and Alex (Nichole Forbes) of Bemidji. Grandchildren, Truman and Thea Monson, Wesley and Lily Baudeck and Emersyn Cole. Sisters: Sandy Carpenter of Bemidji, Vicki (Tom) Berge of Puposky, Beth Ann Knutson of Long Lake.  Brothers: David Johnson of Bemidji, Donovan (Jody) Johnson of Lakeville, Dean Johnson of Bemidji, Dennis (Berta) Johnson of Columbia Heights, Rick (Leslie) Knutson of Maple Grove, Kevin Knutson of Albertville, Tim Knutson of Orono, Steve (Julie Iverson) Knutson of Bemidji, Carl (Holly) Knutson of Bemidji.

He was proceeded in death by his mother, Kathleen Johnson; his special aunt, Barb Knutson; uncle, Garwood Knutson; grandmother, Mildred Baumgart; and grandfather, Norris Monson.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00pm-3:00pm, Saturday, June 27, 2020 at the Rail River Folk School, 303 Railroad St SW, Bemidji.  Family and friends are welcome to join for remembrance and lunch.

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