RICHARD KNUTSON

Richard died Saturday, September 25, 2021 at the UT Medical Center in Knoxville, TN. Funeral services were Saturday, October 2 at the American Legion Hall in Wagner. Burial was in the Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Greenwood. Wake services began Thursday at the Legion Hall. Peters Funeral Home in Wagner was in charge of arrangements.

Richard Allen Knutson (Johnson) was born to Calvin “Rock” Blaine and Millicent Leatrice Johnson on September 29, 1963 in Wagner. He was better known as Rick to all family and friends. Rick was a baby when he was adopted out of state. In 1986 he moved to Ewing, VA where he met Geneva Ann Ayers. They later married in 1991. To that union was born six children: Timmy Groves, Richard (Sierra) Knutson, Natasha Jones, Michael “Mikey” (Brittney) Knutson and Richala Knutson.

He also leaves behind grandchildren: Abriel, Leland, Kason, Renezmae, Preston, Sophia, and Coaltyn.

Rich had returned to his birthplace for the first time in 1999. He worked at the Fort Randall Casino where he made many new friends. He loved meeting his family. He brought smiles, happiness, and laughter to everyone he met. He had a wonderful sense of Humor. Other than that his love of spending time with family. Rick also loved to watch Nascar racing, Wrestling, Pittsburgh Steelers and Western movies.

He was very proud of his native roots, so he adored Native American Art and pictures of eagles. Rick is survived by his wife Ann, his children and grandchildren; brother Virgil W. Johnson and sister Lois M. Lopez (Johnson), both of Sioux Falls.

Rick is preceded in death by his father Calvin “Rock” Blaine and mother Millicent Leatrice Johnson; sisters: Ethel M. Johnson, Ila M. Johnson, and Edla O. Johnson; and brothers: Harold Johnson and Wilbur J. Johnson.