Wendell Carl Knutson

Wendell Carl Knutson, age 89, passed away at home on Saturday, June 20th surrounded by the love of his family.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, June 29, 2026 at Bethel Lutheran Church in Bemidji, MN. Visitation will be 5:00 - 7:00 p.m., Sunday, June 28, 2026 at the Olson-Schwartz Funeral Home, Bemidji and one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.

He was born on October 28, 1936, in the family farmhouse in Puposky, Minnesota, to Carl and Adeline Knutson. Wendell attended Austin School in Puposky through the sixth grade before continuing his education at Bemidji Junior and Senior High School. He graduated with the Bemidji High School Class of 1954. Throughout the next 72 years, he attended every class reunion, often helping with the planning and preparations. He treasured his classmates and the lifelong friendships they shared. As a young man, Wendell stayed with his brother, Karel, and his family, helping with chores and farm work. He also assisted neighboring farmers during threshing season, developing a strong work ethic and willingness to help others that would characterize his entire life.

Following graduation, Wendell worked in Leonard Dickinson's sawmill. In the fall of 1956, Clarence Osied invited him to join Culligan Soft Water, where he faithfully worked for the next 42 years until his retirement in 1998. In the spring of 1956, Wendell met the love of his life, Beverly Monson. They were married on December 21, 1956, beginning a beautiful partnership that spanned nearly 70 years. Together they raised four children on the family farm that Wendell loved so dearly. Family was at the center of Wendell's life. He and Bev hosted countless family reunions, wagon trains, horse rides, and gatherings that brought together children, grandchildren, relatives, and friends. Wendell was well known throughout the area for the sleigh rides he provided across Beltrami County and at Buena Vista Ski Area. He enjoyed meeting new people and making new friends with every ride. A dedicated horseman, he was an active member of the Go and Whoa Horse Club and participated in the Beltrami County Fair for many years. Retirement did not slow Wendell down. After several years, he began working for Kirk at Olson-Schwartz Funeral Home, a position he thoroughly loved. Serving families during difficult times was meaningful to him, and his kindness and compassion touched many lives.

Wendell was baptized and confirmed at Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church in Puposky, where he faithfully served in many capacities throughout his life. His faith, generosity, and love for others were evident in all that he did. Above all else, Wendell loved his family. He cherished every visit, every gathering, and every opportunity to spend time with those he loved. His warm smile, gentle spirit, and servant's heart will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Wendell is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Beverly; his children, Randy Knutson, Wendy Yerbich, Terri (Jeff) Ryan, and Lori (Terry) Gerhardson; grandchildren Jesse, Joni, Krista, Brad, Nic, Samantha, and Kerissa; great-grandchildren Dylan, Lauren, Weston, Hailee, Kora, Lynden, Trillium, Brekkett, Kaija, Leo, Arlo, Monroe and Jude; and great-great-grandson Mavrik. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl, and Adeline Knutson; his son-in-law, Kurt Yerbich; his grandson, Matthew Yerbich; his great-grandson, Ben Yerbich; and his four brothers, Gile, Karel, Wayne, and Garwood.

Wendell's legacy of faith, family, hard work, and service to others will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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