MICHAEL O. KNUTSON

Mike Knutson 

Michael Odin Knutson, a respected Houston funeral director of more than forty years, passed away at his home on March 22, 2026, at the age of 69.Mike was born in Mayville, North Dakota, on November 9, 1956, to Odin Knutson and Esther Mustad. He graduated from Cooperstown Central High School with the Class of 1975. He went on to earn his Associate’s degree from the Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science and a Bachelor of Science in Funeral Service from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.Mike’s caring nature and deep empathy for the families he served allowed him to excel in his profession. After completing his apprenticeship, he earned his Texas funeral director license in 1983.He dedicated 35 years to Service Corporation International, serving families with the Dignity Memorial network at Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, Forest Park Westheimer, Brookside Funeral Home Cypress Creek, Katy Funeral Home, and several other Houston-area locations. He left S.C.I. in 2017 and spent two years with the Darst Funeral Group in Kingwood before serving as an ambassador at Bradshaw-Carter Memorial & Funeral Services in his later years.Mike’s compassion guided countless families through their grief. He was a true friend who remembered your interests, brought treats for your pets, and always took the time to ask how your day was going. He valued genuine connections and was deeply grateful for the many friendships he formed throughout his life.Mike is survived by his loving sister, Nancy Knutson of Valley City, North Dakota.

. A Memorial Service will held Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Sheyenne Valley Lutheran Church, rural Finley, ND, visitation will be one hour before. Interment will be in the Church Cemetery