Susan J Knutson

Susan Knutson (1951–2026), wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away following a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease. She was known for her warmth, creativity, humor, and the close personal bonds she formed throughout her life.

Sue grew up in Grafton, North Dakota, where her love for home and design emerged early. She had a gift for making spaces feel comfortable and welcoming, a talent that stayed with her throughout her life. While she enjoyed traveling, her greatest joy was always returning home to the spaces she thoughtfully created.

She attended college at Whapeton State School of Science, earning a nursing degree as valedictorian of her class, and later lived in Grand Forks, where she met her husband, John Knutson. They later made their home in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, where they raised their two children, Joe and Erica.

Sue’s love of art and design extended to her distinctive personal style and a lifelong affection for the color red, which she wore and displayed with confidence. That same eye made her observant of those around her, and she was generous with compliments, often noticing small details others overlooked. Even as her health declined, she remained gracious and affirming toward those who cared for her.

Sue had a sharp sense of humor and a laugh that was entirely her own, unmistakable to those who knew her well. She valued meaningful conversation and one-on-one time, often shared over a cup of coffee.

Her working life included roles in nursing, blood bank services, eye care, and later furniture sales at Conlin’s Furniture in Grand Forks. There, her patience, insight, and ability to connect with people earned the trust of customers and colleagues alike.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Jean Adams; her brother Jay Adams; her sister-in-law Patty Adams; her brother-in-law Doug Knutson; her daughter-in-law Anna Knutson; and her nephews Bill Adams and Adam Narlock.

Sue is survived by her husband, John Knutson; her son Joe Knutson and daughter-in-law Elizabeth; her daughter Erica Milton and son-in-law James; and her brothers John Adams and Wayne Adams.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, January 23 at 3:00 p.m. at Amundson’s Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 2:00 p.m. A celebration of life will follow immediately at Eagles Crest at Kings Walk Golf Course, where food and drink will be provided. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the East Grand Forks Food Shelf or HIA Hospice. Attendees are invited to wear something red in Sue’s memory.