Kevin Dean Knutson, avid gardener, motorcycle enthusiast, and the world's best dad and grandpa, passed away peacefully Tuesday, April 16, 2024. He was 69 and a life-long resident of Letcher, South Dakota. A visitation has been arranged for Sunday, April 21, 2024 from 4 – 6 p.m. at Will's Funeral Home in Mitchell, South Dakota. There will be a Celebration of Life on Monday, April 22, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Letcher Community Center to share laughter and memories.

Kevin was born on October 23, 1954 to Darwin and Arlene (Edwards) Knutson in Mitchell, South Dakota.  After graduating in 1972 from Letcher High School he bought and successfully ran The Rec, an establishment on Letcher's Main Street where kids and adults could hangout.

He married his high school sweetheart, Shelley Putnam, on November 1, 1975.  Soon after, Kevin handed the reins of The Rec to Shelley and started his career with Terry's Propane, dedicating nearly 32 years fueling families and farmers. Kevin went on to work for Big Green in Mitchell and later helped drive truck and farm machinery for friends and family.

Kevin and Shelley would go on to have two children, Katie and J.D. (James Darwin). He was a devoted husband and proud father. Several family trips were taken each year; and whether they went to the Black Hills snowmobiling, Colorado horseback riding, or Walt Disney World, Kevin made sure memories were made.

Kevin's love extended beyond his immediate family. He was a friend in the truest sense, always ready to lend a hand. Whether it was fixing a broken lawnmower or braving a snowstorm to help with a heating issue, Kevin was there. His dedication to his loved ones was amazing, and his presence will be deeply missed.

Each year in the summer you could find Kevin tending to his abundant garden, which he swore he was going to downsize because of the upkeep… Yet over the years it grew larger and larger. Families and friends reaped the benefits of his green thumb. You will never find an ear of corn as sweet or a tomato so flavorful.

Kevin is survived by his children, Katie (Keith) Ramm, J.D. (Tara) Knutson; sister Lynette (Ron) Vermeulen, brothers Mark (Elaine) Knutson and Keith Knutson; stepmother Elaine Knutson; and three grandchildren, Baylee Ramm and Killian and Fayleigh Knutson.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Darwin and Arlene, a brother, Michael, and the love of his life, Shelley Knutson in 2019.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to his family and they will in turn honor Kevin's request to donate back to the Letcher Summer Youth. Kevin loved to watch the kids play and would be honored to keep the program alive for future athletes.