Thief River Falls – Sandra “Sandy” Knutson, 80, of Thief River Falls, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at LifeCare Greenbush Manor with her loving family by her side.
Sandra “Sandy” Jean Christianson was born on November 11, 1944, in Thief River Falls, the beloved daughter of Arthur B. and Lilah Harriet (Olson) Christianson. She was baptized into the Lutheran faith and later confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, where her spiritual foundation continued to grow and guide her throughout her life.
Sandy attended Northrop Elementary and Franklin Middle School, and graduated from Lincoln High School, Class of 1962. Her years in school were marked by lasting friendships and a strong sense of community.
Following high school, Sandy moved to Duluth, where she began her career in health care and completed her surgical training. This marked the beginning of a lifelong dedication to helping others through compassionate and skilled medical care.
On August 24, 1968, Sandy was united in marriage to Rodney Knutson at Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls. To this union, two children were born, Nicole and Nathan —who were the pride and joy of her life. The family made their home in Thief River Falls, where Sandy continued her career in health care, working in the Surgical Department at Northwestern Hospital.
Sandy was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church, where she served faithfully as the Parish Nurse for many years. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, shaping her values, her compassion, and her unwavering commitment to serving others. Through her work and her ministry, she touched countless lives with kindness, empathy, and grace.
In 1990, Sandy experienced the heartbreaking loss of her daughter Nicole, who passed away just three days before high school graduation. In the 35 years that followed, Sandy honored Nicole’s memory in countless heartfelt ways. She took great pride in memorializing her “special angel” through symbolic gestures—collecting angels, saving cards and messages, and cherishing every remembrance that kept Nicole’s spirit close.
In her later years, Sandy faced multiple battles with cancer. Through each challenge, she showed remarkable strength and resilience, surviving and continuing to live fully—cherishing time with her family, nurturing her faith, and embracing each day with gratitude and grace.
One of Sandy’s greatest joys was following her grandchildren, Noah and Grady, in their many activities. Whether it was hockey, soccer, or baseball, she was their biggest fan—cheering them on with pride and love. She also enjoyed camping with family and friends, fishing, baking, spending time with her homemakers group, and visiting with loved ones.
In 2017, Sandy and Rodney took on the exciting challenge of building their dream home. With shared tastes and a deep understanding of one another, they created a space that reflected their love, warmth, and the life they had built together—a true labor of love and a place filled with cherished memories.
Sandy will be remembered for her incredibly positive attitude, her humble and generous spirit, and her love for life’s simple pleasures—including shopping trips that brought her joy and connection. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering faith left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Survivors include her loving husband of 57 years, Rodney of Thief River Falls; her son, Nathan (Sara) Knutson of Cloquet; grandchildren, Noah and Grady; sister, Sharon Taggart of Roseau; and sisters-in-law, Rhonda (Mike) Sellnow of Pine Island, and Sharon Knutson of Ada; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great- great-nieces and nephews; and many other relatives, friends, and her family of faith.
She is preceded in death by her daughter, Nicole; parents; and brothers-in-law, Duane Taggart and Royal Knutson.
Visitation will be held from 5–7 p.m., with a 6:30 p.m. prayer service, on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls.
Visitation will also begin at 10 a.m., with the service to celebrate Sandra’s life at 11 a.m., on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, with Rev. Kristin Ostercamp officiating.
Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.
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