Caryl E. Knutson

Caryl E. Knutson, age 93 of Hastings, died peacefully on Saturday morning, December 26, 2020, at Augustana Care Center of Hastings. Caryl Earnestine, the daughter of Earnest and Fern (Meehan) Nelson, was born on August 24, 1927, in Omaha, Nebraska. Following her graduation from Valley City High School, Caryl continued her education at the local teaching school, also in Valley City, North Dakota, where she obtained her teaching certificate. On June 22, 1947, she was united in marriage to Merle C. Knutson. They lived in Valley City and Minot, North Dakota, before moving to Hastings in 1967 where she began her longtime career with Smead Mfg. Caryl enjoyed tending to her flower gardens, as well as the rhubarb and raspberry patches. She was known for her lefse and donuts, and enjoyed creating many family traditions. Most importantly, family was very important to Caryl and she cherished the time spent together. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Merle on June 3, 2007; and by her sisters, Phyllis Hendrickson and Shirley Lee. Caryl is survived by her children, Randy (Diane) Knutson, Michael (Martha) Knutson, Thomas (Kim) Knutson, Susan Knutson, Kimberly (Michael) Walderon, and Barbara (Michael) Fuchs; grandchildren, Nathan (Kristine) Knutson, Matthew (Janelle) Knutson, Joshua (Nicole) Knutson, Sean (Melissa) Knutson, Sandi Knutson, Karen Knutson, Benjamin Knutson, Joel (Jennifer) Knutson, Jennifer Walderon, Trevor Walderon, and Kaitlyn Walderon; eleven great grandchildren; and by other relatives and friends. Private family services will be held Sunday, January 3, 2021, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings, with Gordon Gathright officiating. Interment will follow at Lakeside Cemetery in Hastings. Caryl's grandchildren will assist as casket bearers. Family and friends are invited to view the service on the Starkson Family Life Celebration Facebook page starting at 2:00 p.m. Sunday. Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.