James A. 'Jim' Knutson of rural Hot Springs passed away on August 11, 2012.


Jim was born on September 23, 1945, to Irwin and Gladys (Myhren) Knutson. He was raised on a ranch near Hill Head and graduated from Veblen High School in 1963. Jim graduated from Augustana College in 1967 where he participated in wrestling. He was named 1966-67 Outstanding Wrestler and became the first Viking to win a North Central Conference championship. He married Laurie Alness in 1969. Jim was a teacher and coach at Brandon Valley High School, a loan officer at the State Bank of Alcester, the Manager of Dakota Heritage State Bank in Brandon and Valley Springs and a rancher. Jim retired to rural Hot Springs where he enjoyed the outdoors and participating in community projects for the city of Hot Springs. His children and grandchildren were the joy of his life and he loved attending their activities and participating in their celebrations.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Irwin, son, Mark, sister, Joanne and nephew, Wade.

He is survived by his mother, Gladys, of Sisseton, his son, Kelly (Mary Swallow) of Red Shirt, his son Jon (Megan) of Sioux Falls, four grandchildren: James Knutson, Christian Knutson, Cathlyn Knutson, and Ava Knutson all of Red Shirt, his brother Kent (Ileen) of Watertown, one niece, three nephews, and several cousins.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, August 16, 2012, at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs with Rev. Morris Nelson officiating.

Burial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, August 22, 2012, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Veblen, SD.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs. Written condolences may be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.