Ishpeming- Earl R. Knutson, age 89, longtime area resident, passed away early on Monday July 6, 2026 at UP Health System Bell while in the loving care of his family, and hospital staff.

Earl was born in Valders, WI on May 14, 1937, son of the late Hover and Ruth (Hecker) Knutson. He graduated from Valders High School with the class of 1955. Earl then served the country in the United States Army from September of 1956 until his honorable discharge in June of 1958. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in teaching and served the NICE Community School district driving bus, and doing maintenance from 1974 until his retirement in 1999.

Earl was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Marquette where he was the Sunday school superintendent, taught Sunday school, served on the church council, and sang in the choir. He enjoyed gardening, photography, hunting, fishing, watching sports, and travelling to watch his children and his grandchildren’s events.

Earl is survived by his wife of 64 years: Donna (Korpi) Knutson, 3 children: Blane (Kay) Knutson, Shawn Knutson, Heidi (Bill) Dani, 2 brothers: Juel (Marie) Knutson, Warren (Kathy) Knutson, sister-in-law: Gail Knutson, 17 grandchildren: Luke (Stephanie), David (Abbie), Hannah, Gabrielle, Renee (Johnathan), Anton, Kailey, Alexis (Jacob), Will, Benjamin, Caleb, Seth, Jonah, Tamirat, Emanuel, Alejandra, Sena, 5 great grandchildren: Nora, Ryan, Willow, Johnathan, Vincent, along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings: Jerry Knutson, Randi (Tom) Kupsch, sister-in-law: Barb Knutson, and 2 children: Craig Knutson and Krista Wealton.

Earl’s family will greet relatives and friends at the Calvary Lutheran Church located at 450 W. Ohio St. in Marquette on Saturday July 11, 2026 from 10:00am until 12:00pm. Earl’s funeral service will begin at 12:00pm with Pastor Paul Agenten officiating. A luncheon will follow the service in the church hall. Interment will take place in the Ishpeming Cemetery where military honors will be accorded.

In lieu of flowers, memorial considerations may be made to the Calvary Lutheran Church Memorial Fund in memory of Earl.

Earl’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.