Duane Knutson

Duane Knutson passed away peacefully on March, 25 2012 6:40 a.m. at Linden Grove Hospice in Puyallup at the age of 83. Duane was born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of forty-five years, Mio Knutson, ten years ago. After graduation from high school, Duane enlisted in the Army. His military service spanned over twenty years with tours of duty in Germany, Japan, Korea and Viet Nam. It was in Japan where Duane and Mio met and were married. Following his Army service, Duane went to work at the American Lake Veteran's Hospital, working there for twenty-five years until his retirement in 1991. Duane loved spectator sports. He was a loyal fan of teams based in the Pacific Northwest and also professional teams in western Pennsylvania where he was raised. He was an avid Seahawks and University of Washington Husky fan, cheered always for the Pittsburg Steelers, but above all he loved the Seattle Mariners. He spent many weekends at Safeco Field meticulously keeping his scorecard up to date, recording every hit, run and error keeping him engrossed in the ebb and flow of every game. Duane and Mio were blessed in their marriage with three wonderful children. Those children and their families all settled nearby living in the South Sound area. Duane and his devoted wife Mio were happiest when surrounded by family and grandchildren. He is survived by two daughters and a son, Helen Floyd in Wauna, Ed Knutson in Puyallup and Linda Hultman in Federal Way. Duane's four grand children, Kelsey Knutson, Allyssa Knutson, Patricia Hultman and Daniel Hultman were a big part of his life and a constant source of pride and joy. Public viewing will be held at Haven of Rest on Friday, March 30 from 12 to 8pm. A full military funeral service will be held at Haven of Rest Cemetery in Gig Harbor at 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 31. Remembrances may be made to Light of Christ Community Garden c/o Christ Lutheran Church, 2400 SW 344th St Federal Way Wa 98023.