Gerhardt "Jack" Knutson

Gerhardt “Jack” Knutson, age 100, of Grey Cloud Island, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2025 at Good Samaritan hospice care in Inver Grove Heights, MN.

Jack was born in Ridgeland, Wisconsin to John and Clara (Gravermoen) Knutson on December 17, 1924. He grew up in Ridgeland where he attended school until the 8th grade.

At age 18 he entered the US Army. He served in WWII, where he was an anti-aircraft cannoneer. He was honorably discharged in 1945 with the rank of Private First Class.

Jack was married to Sarah Schostag on date January 19, 1952, in St. Paul, Minnesota. They eventually settled on some acreage in Grey Cloud Island. They loved animals, having a horse, “Tom”, Parrot, “Bones” and many dogs and other birds through the years. Jack and Sarah enjoyed Polka Dancing and traveled with the dance group Po.L.K. of A. (Polka Lovers Klub of America). He was also very talented at woodworking and made many beautiful lawn ornaments.

Jack is preceded in death by beloved wife of 50 years, Sarah (nee Schostag); Infant daughter Debra; stepson Anthony Schultz; Parents John and Clara (Gravermoen); brothers, Kenneth, Ervin, Richard and Gerald Knutson; and sisters; Josie Ebling, Hazel Hartung and Irene Smestuen.

He is survived by his sister, Norma Johnson of Woodbury, MN; many loving nieces and nephews; relatives and special friends.

If you met him, you loved him! The world was truly blessed to have Jack for 100 years, and his spirit touched so many. He will be deeply missed, but our hearts are full knowing he is at peace ... He is reunited with his baby daughter, and he and Sarah are dancing together again!

Visitation will be 10-11 AM, with Funeral Service beginning at 11 AM, Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at Kok Funeral Home, 1201 Portland Ave., St. Paul Park, MN 55071. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Grey Cloud Island Cemetery.