Donald C Knutz

It is with profound sadness that I share the passing of my beloved father, Don Knutz (pronounced KUH-NOOOTS) who left us on July 16, 2024 at the age of 77, born in Huron, South Dakota. Surrounded by his loving family in his final moments, he was a man of immense humor and wisdom, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. His passion for fishing, hunting, shooting, and playing guitar along with his chivalrous spirit will forever be honored by those that loved him. A celebrated Vietnam War Veteran, he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for his heroism and outstanding achievements serving in the most hostile areas while under heavy fire when stationed at Camranh Bay. A brave warrior and a hero for his country as well for his family. He lives on through lessons taught, habits formed, and memories shared. Continuing to carry on his humor and gritty joyful way of being, his legacy is survived by his Wife and love of his life, Cheryl Knutz. They built their life together in Las Vegas, NV where they moved to in 1990 having married each other here in 1979 at Wee KirkO’Thee Heather located downtown. Together they built a beautiful life full of love, laughter, integrity, and joy. They often snuck away to their special place, Arizona Charlie’s, where they were just them, a couple, Don & Cheryl! Not Mom & Dad, nor Grandma and PopPop, just them — a man and his sweetheart. You’d also find them sharing time together on their back patio, in his garage, or in his office watching Gutfield! They raised 3 children: Erick, Chris, and Nickie. Spending much time with their children outdoors building/fixing things, swimming, and going on adventures, they strived to instill in their family how to find the joy in life and what it’s truly about. Finding the quiet within yourself to be able to pay attention to the fish biting on the line. How to not sweat the small stuff and how to get your hands dirty, and that jeans you wear are great for wiping your hands on! Together they buried their son, Chris and mourned a loss no parent should and held fast together and found strength within their support of one another. Don was happily received by his family waiting for him, including his son Chris, his mother Lillian, father Bill, brother Billy, sisters Betty and Junie, niece Roxy, and many others he’s lost in this material world. They shared beautiful grandchildren who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest with PopPop (named by his granddaughter, Lilliana) as their spiritual warrior at their side. He shared a special individual connection with all his grandchildren and was their champion. Teaching his children a few things all men oughta know, he instilled in them a servant leadership mentality with a loving yet “take no shit” way of being. He raised rebels in his children and urged them to question things, use discernment, then to move forward accordingly. Don’t be quick to throw things away, he taught, fix them instead. Lastly, to always root for the Packers!! Go Packers Go! 

To commemorate his remarkable life and the memories we cherish, a service will be held at Davis Funeral Home, 1401 S Rainbow Las Vegas Nv 89146 on August 8, 2024 at 3pm and the family will be receiving guests afterwards at 340 Obsidian Drive, Las Vegas, Nv 89145 until 8pm. We welcome all who knew him to join us in celebrating the life of a man who was loved deeply and will be missed!