Roger E. Knudtson

Roger E. Knudtson of Rochester, Minnesota passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Spring Valley Nursing Home in Spring Valley, Minnesota at the age of 86. Roger was born Roger Earl Knudtson on November 14, 1938 in Buffalo Center, Iowa, to Archibald Knudtson and Gertrude (Smith) Knudtson.

Roger grew up in East Chain, Minnesota and graduated from East Chain High School in 1956. Following High School Roger joined the Army and served honorably. Following his service to his country, he attended Mankato (Minnesota) Business College and graduated with a two-year degree in accounting.

In 1961, Roger married Becky Ludvigson and they resided in Rochester, Minnesota where they raised two sons, Jay and James “Jimmy” Knudtson. During his working years Roger worked for Retail Credit Company that later became Equifax and specialized in property and insurance related review and audit.

On January 15, 1999 Roger married Barbara Ostrom and they lived in Rochester, Minnesota until the time of his death. Roger and Barbara lived a wonderful life together and enjoyed spending time with their family and friends. Roger is survived by his wife, Barbara of Rochester and her wonderful and supportive family including son, Todd (Becky) Ostrom, son, Terry (Natalie) Ostrom, son, T.J (Pam) Ostrom and daughter, Traci (Mark) Milkanin and their numerous grandkids and great grandkids. In addition, Roger is survived by his son, Jay B. Knudtson and his wife, Cindy of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, grandson, Gunnar James Knudtson and his wife, Holly of Cape Girardeau, Missouri and his precious great granddaughter, Stella James Knudtson.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved son, James “Jimmy” Knudtson who we lost in a tragic motorcycle accident in 1998 – Roger adored Jimmy and there is great peace in knowing they are now together in Heaven.

Roger was an avid fisherman in his younger days and was an enthusiastic fan of the Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Lynx. Roger loved his life with Barbara and their many friends and he will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date – We appreciate all your thoughts and prayers.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Knudtson family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.