Pete Knutson

Pete Knutson, 76, passed away Thursday, June 19, 2014, at his home in Clyde Park, MT. Memorial services will take place Thursday, June 26th at 2pm at American Lutheran Church (129 S F St.) in Livingston. Interment will follow the service; followed by a potluck reception at the Shields Valley Community Center (Miles Ave.) in Clyde Park. Pete was born on November 7, 1937, in Dawson, MN. He was the son of Reuben and Dorinda Knutson. He attended school in both Dawson, MN and Miles City, MT, graduating from Miles City High School in 1955. On December 26, 1960, he married Karen Mosher of Augusta, MT. They divorced many years later after raising three children: Kim, Stephen and Scott. Pete was a rancher who loved the cattle business. A self-taught auctioneer, he auctioned many years at livestock auctions and estate sales, mainly in MT but throughout much of the West. He served as Park County Commissioner from 1977-84. Pete was an active member of the ELKS Chapter in Livingston. In 1956-57, he served as Western Region National FFA Vice-President in which he toured the US promoting youth in agriculture and fondly remembered meeting President Harry Truman. During high school, Pete met Clyde Sullivan who became his mentor in the cattle business. Pete loved ranching. He knew his cattle extremely well and held a registered bull sale for many years. He was a longtime supporter of Montana State University contributing to their Steer-A-Year program and especially enjoyed MSU football. Pete loved the majestic mountains of Montana and always referred to it as Gods country. Seeing his grandchildren always brightened his day. Pete is survived by his children: Kim Knutson of Wilsall; Stephen of Los Angeles, CA and Scott of Helena, wife Jennifer, their two children Jack and Samantha. He has two sisters: Phyllis Johnson of Billings and Sharon Swanson of Las Vegas, NV. Also nieces, a nephew, cousins, many other relatives and friends. Pete is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Chuck. Interment will be at Mountain View Cemetery where he will be buried next to his mother and brother. The family extends their gratitude for all the years of love and support. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Shields Valley FFA Alumni or the Shields Valley Community Center. Arrangements are under the direction of Franzen-Davis Funeral Home, Livingston.