Knutson, Robert Alfred
Robert Alfred Knutson, 87, died Thursday, March 16, at the TBRHSC, peacefully, with his family by his side. Born in Port Arthur, August 24, 1929, Robert spent his working life in Toronto, retiring to Creemore, Ontario. With his wife, Marilyn, he returned to Thunder Bay in 2013, to take up residence at Chartwell Isabella.
Following graduation from Port Arthur Collegiate, he attended Lakehead Technical Institute before completing a Bachelor’s degree in Geology at Queen’s University and a Master’s degree in Geology at the University of Manitoba. He began his career as an exploration geologist with Lundberg Explorations Ltd. of Toronto before moving to Newconex Canadian Exploration Ltd. where he spent the majority of his working years. He was employed by Canamax Resources Inc. when he retired in 1987. He was a fellow of the Geological Association of Canada, and a member of the Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, and the Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario.
Robert was proud of his Norwegian heritage, and visited Norway twice. He had a generous heart, and was willing to help others in any way he could. He was a creative and skilled woodworker, who often donated his work to raise money for community projects and charities. He enjoyed a broad range of music, from folk songs to opera. Robert was a man of integrity, intelligence and quiet strength who cherished his time with family and friends.
Robert will be lovingly remembered by his wife and best friend of 62 years, Marilyn, and their children: David (Beverly) Knutson of Thunder Bay, Kathryn (Paul) Monti of Fredericton, NB, Karen (Andrew) McDonald of Vancouver, BC and “big brother,” nephew Keith (Julia) Lockhart of Oakville, ON; grandchildren: Michael and Vivike Knutson, Andrea and Jennifer McDonald, Kristy and Heather Lockhart. He will be missed by his remaining siblings: Betty (Ken) McAskill, Irene (George) Hartviksen and Ed Knutson, as well as by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many special friends.
Celebration of his life will be held at Blake Funeral Chapel, 200 South May Street, on Thursday, March 23. Visitation will be from noon to 1 p.m. Funeral at 1 p.m., and a reception at the Columbus Centre following the service.
The family is especially grateful to the medical staff at the TBRHSC (Stroke Unit/Palliative Care Team), particularly the wonderful doctors and nurses who provided exceptional care for him and support for his family during his final days. In lieu of flowers, donations to the TBRHSC Foundation would be appreciated.
