Donald "Donnie" Duane Knutson

Donald Duane Knutson, age 89 of New Hampton, IA passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 11, 2026, at his home.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 15, 2026, at Jerico Lutheran Church, rural New Hampton, with Rev. Peter Faugstad officiating. Interment will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church – Crane Creek Cemetery, rural Lawler.

Friends are invited to greet the family from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton. Visitation continues one hour before the service at the church in Jerico on Friday.

Donald “Donnie” Knutson, 89, passed away peacefully at home on May 11. Born on February 2, 1937, in Chickasaw County. He was the beloved son of Severt and Ida (Throndson) Knutson. Donnie’s life was defined by an unwavering work ethic and deep commitment to his loved ones.

He grew up in Jerico, Iowa, attending country school before beginning work at a young age. At just 16, Donnie moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, for his first job making snow skis, a role that sparked a lifelong passion for working with his hands. This dedication led him to a successful career as a machinist and carpenter.

In 1956, Donnie answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army. He proudly served as a tank driver in Mannheim, Germany. After returning home, he married his devoted wife, Delores Zobeck, on June 13, 1959, at the Immaculate  Conception Church in Elma, IA. Together they built a loving home for their six children—five sons and a daughter.

Donnie’s work history includes working for Oliver/White Farm Equipment in Charles City until the plant closed. He then accepted a job in Russellville, Arkansas, as a consultant for Minneapolis-Moline. A year later, he returned to Iowa and spent over 17 years as a lathe operator at Precision Torque Converters in New Hampton before retiring. Beyond work, Donnie was committed to his community, helping maintain Pioneer Cemetery with Delores. 

Family meant everything to Donnie: he cherished time with his 17 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren (with another expected in July). He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and trapping. Donnie was also a skilled woodworker. He loved classic cars, especially his black 1950 Chevrolet Business Coupe. Donnie’s most memorable travels was a trip to Pearl Harbor with  Delores for their 50th wedding anniversary.

He is survived by his loving wife, Delores; his children: Danny (Wendy) of Keller, TX, Denny (Jo) of Jerico, IA, Dale of Lawler, IA, Doreen (Tom) Franzen of Nashua, IA, and Duke (Terri) of Jerico, IA; as well as his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Donnie’s warmth and generosity touched many lives. He is preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, one son (David), and one great-granddaughter.

Donnie will be dearly missed and forever remembered for the legacy of love, generosity, and dedication he leaves behind.