Larry Neil Knutson, 78, of Vale, South Dakota, passed away July 16, 2023, at the University of Colorado Medical Center of the Rockies, Loveland, Colorado.

Larry was the first born to Allan and Clara (Weyrich) Knutson. He was born in Deadwood, SD, on June 30, 1945. He attended various schools including Marcus, Bear Butte Valley, Empire and graduated from Vale High School in 1963.

During his high school years, he sold his Shetland pony so he could buy his first car, a yellow Ford Fairlane. Also, during his high school years, he worked for a neighbor, Ray Murray, performing various duties. This was the start of his love for farming.

In 1965 he was drafted into the US Army. He served one year overseas during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in 1967.

Larry married Dona (the Love of his life) Philipsen in December 1968. To this union three children were born: Deon, Theresa, and Allan.

In 1975 Larry wanted to "Live the American Dream" and become a farmer. Times were pretty challenging during the 1980's, but he lowered his head and attacked it straight on! He raised wheat, alfalfa, corn and small grains. He tried raising hogs for a time, but soon gave that idea up and went to sheep and cattle. Farming 2,400 acres became labor intensive, but thanks to his wife and three kids, he was able to fulfill his dream.

Larry served on the Butte County ASCS board for several years. He was also active in the VFW at Newell. Most recently he was the president of the Vale Community Club.

Larry is survived by his wife of 54 years, Dona of Vale, SD; sons, Deon (Doranna) of Vale, Allan (Becky) of Keystone, SD, and daughter, Theresa (Brian) of Rapid City, SD; brothers, Jerry (Joelen) of Sundance, WY and Dale (Gail) of Vale; sisters, Janet (Robert) of Sturgis, SD, Darlene of Sturgis, Kathy (Greg) of Vale, and Shirley of Arizona; grandchildren, Rachel, Devon, Wyatt, Kally, and Seth; four extended grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Allan and Clara; his wife's parents, Raymond and Rachel; infant brother, Tommy; Brother-in-law, Arlie Mullins; and sister-in-law, Lois "Cookie" Knutson.

In lieu of flowers memorials have been established to the Vale Fire Department, Vale Cemetery, and the Vale Community Club.

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