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Kirby J. Knutson, 82, of Cherry Valley, passed away on November 29, 2022, at home with his wife Margaret Veronica “Ronnie”, of 23 years, at his side.
He was born February 3, 1940, in Sioux City, Iowa, the son of Glen and Esther (Mortensen) Knutson. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education from Western Illinois University. Kirby worked as a physical education and drivers education teacher, where he taught at Dixon, Harlem, Boylan and all 5 Rockford Public Schools. He coached track, cross country, and basketball, and refereed many games for high school and college basketball.
He was also vice president of Johnson Energy Systems and president of Charmglow Fireplaces & Stoves. He loved refereeing so much he returned to it after his retirement. Kirby was an avid sports enthusiast. He loved playing golf, and watching football, baseball, and basketball. He is survived by his wife, Ronnie; former spouse, Patricia (Roger) Dutzle; children, Rick, Sara, and Matthew; daughter-in-law, Talandra Lee; grandchildren, Brandon, Danielle, Weston (Savannah), Kyle, Isaac, Chloe, Dejon, Alicia, Koby, Emlyn, and Caden; sister, Kami Kapacinskas; nephew, Thomas; and niece, Mia (Eric).
He is predeceased by his parents and son, James Dusty. A visitation will be held on Friday, December 16, 2022, from 10:00 am – 11:00 am, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 701 Grove Street, Mauston, WI 53948.
A funeral service will follow the visitation, starting at 11:00 am. Burial at Mauston Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Village of Progress, 710 S. 13th Street, Oregon, IL 61061. Please share memories and condolences online at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.
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