Daniel Paul Knutson, 53, Benson

Daniel Paul Knutson was born in Benson, MN, on November 15, 1960, the son of Gerald W. and Gloria H. (Nelson) Knutson.  He was baptized and confirmed at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Swift Falls.  Dan was raised in the Benson area and graduated from Benson High School in 1979.  After high school he attended Hennepin Technical College.  He worked as a welder for many years and thoroughly enjoyed his vocation.  
        
He was united in marriage to Helen “Sissy” Lageson on May 19, 1984 at St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson.  This union was blessed with two children: Samuel and Desiree.  Dan enjoyed NASCAR, football, hunting, fishing, music, welding, woodworking, and playing with his dog, Kojack.  He loved to spend time with family, especially his kids, Sam and Des.
Dan died at his residence on Thursday, January 30, 2014.  He had attained 53 years, 2 months, and 15 days of age.
He is survived by his children, Sam and Desiree Knutson of Ramsey; mother, Gloria Knutson of Benson; siblings: Lynn (Lorie) Knutson of Benson, Becky (Jim) Gullickson of Starbuck, Randy (JoAnne) Knutson of Benson, Shelly (Lynn) Larson of DeGraff; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Dan is preceded in death by his father, Gerald; infant sister, Marcia; and his Grandparents.