Ronald Edward Knudsen

Ronald Edward Knudsen, 80, of Columbia, Missouri passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, June 26, 2021. Memorial services will be officiated by Pastor Bruce Williamson at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 3, 2021 at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. The family will receive guests from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Inurnment will occur after the service in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Ron was born on May 12, 1941 in Kirksville, Missouri to the late John Edward and Alice May Grothe Knudsen. He was married to Marsha Norris on April 4, 1981 in Columbia and she survives. He was a 1959 graduate of Hickman High School. In 1966 he received his B.S. in Education, and in 1970 earned his Masters Degree from Northeast Missouri State College. For seventeen years he taught general science, biology, chemistry and physics at Malta Bend and Montgomery County High Schools. Ron served as the Mayor of High Hill, Missouri in 1976.

In 1982 he became a Professional Photographer, and for the next twenty-four years he owned and operated Knudsen Photography in Columbia along with his wife Marsha. In 1993 Knudsen Photography was named the Columbia Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year. Ron was a proud member of the Columbia South Rotary Club, and was elected Treasurer for eight consecutive years. He was named Rotarian of the Year in 2005-06 and in 2018 he became a Major Donor to the Rotary Foundation.

His genealogy research eventually led to his membership in the Sons of the American Revolution.

The man loved everything about trains: riding trains, owning model trains and creating model train layouts. Ron also had a passion for automobiles old and new, fast and slow. Ron was an avid fisherman whose favorite time to be in his boat on the lake was early morning at sunrise. He was a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, the Mizzou Tigers and enjoyed watching and attending NASCAR races.

He is survived by his wife Marsha; daughter, Kelli (Randy) Schnell; son, Kent (Lori) Knudsen, all of Columbia; brother, J.R. (Vicky) Knudsen of Greenfield, Missouri; brother-in-law, Howard (Kathy) Norris of Liberty, Missouri; grandchildren, Ryan, Sara, Randy, Becky, and Coleman; nephews, Rob and Kevin; great-grandchildren, great-nephews, and many other loving family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Rotary Foundation in care of Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West, Columbia, Missouri 65202 or to Columbia Parkinson's Support Groups, 1311 Vintage Drive, Columbia, MO 65203.

Marsha’s Tribute to her Husband: Read by Pastor Bruce Williamson at Ron’s Memorial Service 7/3/21

Ron Knudsen was a living, breathing Hallmark card—the kind of card that lists all the traits of the perfect husband. Ron possessed every quality, and deserved a gold star for being so romantic. The success of our marriage stemmed from a deep respect for each other. We followed all the good marriage rules—never go to bed angry, always kiss me goodnight, and say “I love you” every day.

I credit Ron’s mother for his sense of etiquette and politeness. He was a true gentleman who opened doors for the ladies, said “Please” and “Thank-you” and knew how to make the best dinner reservations.

Ron got his spirit of generosity and love of travel from his dad who always wanted to get in the car and go somewhere. In forty years we visited every state except Alaska and Hawaii.

Ron also met the Hallmark card definition of a loving father. He was so proud of Kelli and Kent, and rightfully so, because they are caring and kind—just like Ron. I feel blessed to have them in my life.

Ron loved all the guy stuff: cars, boats, trains, sports--and I got to share it all with him. Living with a car enthusiast means you get to own a Model A and a Corvette.

Ron’s lifelong appreciation for trains was contagious. The G-scale trains at Knudsen Photography were a drawing card for “kids” of all ages. After moving to our lake home we converted the downstairs family room into the R&MK Railroad. Ron crafted a 7’x16’ HO-scale train layout. Once he had the trains running, we spent five years adding towns, farms, and even a circus. Selling our train layout this past May was sad.

One of Ron’s hobbies was Geocaching where he used GPS tracking coordinates to find over 2000 hidden boxes called caches. His geocaching nickname was Twilight Rabbit.

The Knudsen love of genealogy began when Kelli and I took a class. Ron enthusiastically embraced tracing his ancestors all the way back to a Revolutionary War veteran which allowed him entry into the Sons of the American Revolution genealogical organization.

Ron was so smart. I truly believe he could have done anything he set his mind to. He had the soul of an entrepreneur. At age twelve he owned his paper route. While teaching, he and son Kent operated a successful lawn mowing business. And in 1981, one month after our wedding, he gave up his career as a high school biology teacher because he wanted to be a photographer—and so together we gave birth to Knudsen Photography. The business should have been a financial failure, but fear of starvation is a great motivator, and statistics didn’t take into account the sheer determination and work ethic of Ron and Marsha Knudsen. During the twenty-four year run of Knudsen Photography, we worked together as a team. We also had the added bonus of working with Kent who was an integral part of the family business.

Ron didn’t join many organizations. However, he became a proud Rotarian, and carried the Rotary medallion in his pocket every day, together with his lucky buckeye. The friends Ron had were special to him and he held them close to his heart.

Fifteen years ago Ron and I moved to a home with a 33-acre lake—the perfect spot for an avid fisherman whose favorite pastime was fly-fishing from his pontoon boat. We called it our “little piece of heaven.” Suffice it to say our journey together was a glorious adventure. Ron Knudsen was the love of my life. Every time he walked through the door my heart skipped a beat. A plaque in our kitchen says it best: “Once in a while, right in the middle of an ordinary life . . . love comes along and brings you a fairy tale.” Ron and I lived that fairy tale love story.

Love you today, tomorrow, forever,

Marsha

Kent’s Tribute to his Dad: Read by Pastor Bruce Williamson at Ron’s Memorial Service 7/3/21

Ron Knudsen was my Dad but he was much more than that. He was a loving Son, Husband, Grandfather, Brother, Father-in-Law and a friend to many.

I will always remember my Dad as being a kind and caring man who was always generous with his time. There was never a time that I asked him for help or advice that he didn't immediately stop what he was doing and give me all that he had to offer. I watched as he cared for his parents as they grew older and I observed that he wasn't afraid to act goofy to make a young child smile and laugh. You can't force yourself to do those things, it just comes from the heart and he definitely had a big heart.

He was able to talk and visit and laugh and listen to anyone who was able to spend some time with him. I'm fairly certain that he got that personality trait from his father, J.E. Knudsen because that is how I remember him too.

When I was a younger child, it seemed like he was always involved in some type of activity....church council, Mayor of High Hill, Cub Scout Leader for me and my friends, Boy Scout leader for a Troop that I wasn't even in because I was too young, (but he sure let me tag along on many of their activities) and numerous high school activities and obligations.

I was never the best student in school. Even though I am 100% sure that ALL of my teachers were great people, they were never my "favorite" people so I was always surprised that whenever my Dad would run into his students somewhere......they always seemed to like him. This seemed really odd to me but I was always impressed and proud at the same time.

He instilled in me a strong work ethic. We mowed many lawns and cemeteries together in my early teen years along with other various jobs to put a little money in my bank account. It wasn't always what I wanted to be doing but I was able to understand the value of work and the rewards that could come from it. Then as I grew older, I watched as he and Marsha built Knudsen Photography from the ground up until it became a place where they were able to make wonderful relationships with many people and families in Columbia and the Mid Missouri area. I was very proud to have been able to work with them for several years. Then when I began working in the funeral business and Dad retired his camera, he kind of worked for me which was crazy and wonderful all at the same time. He was willing to do anything for myself and my co-workers at the funeral home with one goal in mind: to help the people and the families that we served on a daily basis when they needed it the most.

His love and unwavering support through my good times and my bad, will always be something that I will cherish. He had a way of just softly laying a hand on me, just to let me know that he "had my back" and I will always be grateful for those moments when I needed that support the most.

I will miss my Dad tremendously. He was the best Father that I could have ever hoped for. I know that I can't do it, but I will always try to be as kind, caring and generous as he was.

Rest in Peace Dad. You have earned it and you deserve it.

Following is a post from Marsha’s FaceBook page dated July 26, 2021:

Today I lost my best friend and loving husband of forty years when Ron passed away after a two-year battle with Parkinson’s. The blessing is that he passed at home, peacefully in his sleep. What a beautiful love story we shared. –Ron’s wife, Marsha

CONDOLENCES ON MARSHA’S FACEBOOK PAGE:

Lynda Baumgartner—“He was such a wonderful person…kind and patient.”

Linda Vore Hudson—“The two of you always seemed so happy and enjoyed life so keep all those great memories.”

Kelli Schnell—“Sure wish we had gotten more time but grateful he didn’t have to suffer. Best Dad!”

Leslie Hoffman—“Ron was my buddy. A great teacher and a true gentleman through and through. RIP Mr. Biology.”

Denise Cole—“You did have a beautiful love story.”

Jeanie Moser—“You guys had such a relationship that I adored.”

Phyllis Domann—“I know you and your whole family had a wonderful, loving life together. But the life you and Ron had was so special. May God bless you now and in your life ahead.”

Kim Stonecipher-Fisher—“Our family has beautiful memories to last our lifetime because of Ron and you. It was always a pleasure to watch the two of you work together as a team. Your love for each other showed in your work.”

Sharon Paulsell—“I have so many awesome memories of you two photographing my children.”

Sheryll Mitchell—“As a member of the Class of ’74, I will never will forget his biology labs.”

Gary Winter—“I have fond memories of Mr. Knudsen’s chemistry class.”

Stan Hulen—“I’m so heartbroken to hear this. You must know what a lasting legacy you both have left with all your students and colleagues… We all carry a little bit of both of you in our hearts.”

Linda Bradley—“Ron and you have been a beautiful example of a devoted couple who shared a beautiful love and friendship. I have been honored to call you my friends.”

Diane Korman Zumwalt—“I’ll always remember Mr. Knudsen, the Biology Teacher!”

Neil Riley—“What a wonderful man!! We’re all blessed that God put him in our lives. RIP Ron”

Sharon Steffan—“He was always one of my favs….teacher, student council advisor, and photographer.”

Pam Oetting—“I have special memories of him teaching my Sunday school class.”

Curt Kempf—“I loved talking with Ron at Rotary and at the train engine shows. He was a wonderful sole with a calm and cool personality.”

Kat Cunningham—“As a sweet reminder, Mr. Knudsen took my senior pictures in high school…and served up beautiful memories.”

Dave Benish—“It is truly an inspirational love story of two incredible people. Ron will be greatly missed by many.”

Charlie Blakemore—“My sympathy and Kewpie Love!”

Sabrina McDonnell—“What an incredible and inspiring partnership you two had! I’ll always remember the flawless teamwork and tenderness of your interactions.”

Kris Sjursen—“He was such a gentle soul….”

CONDOLENCES ON RON’S FACEBOOK PAGE:

Holly Jennings Bush—“Ron Knudsen, I will miss you and your sunrise pictures and our conversations about where the cool birds were on the lake. Thanks for being a great neighbor and mentor.”

Ruth Miller—“Happy trails, dear cousin.”

Mike Duncan—“Run all the trains and fish all you want in heaven my friend.”

Dan Kercher—“Mr. Knudsen was one of the best teachers I had in high school. He will be missed.”

Cheryl Conrad—“Mr. Knudsen was the guy that introduced me to biology. I hated science prior to taking his class at Montgomery County RII.”

Louise Martin—“Prayers from a Hickman classmate.”

Caryl Darkow—“Marsha, you and Ron were extra special to our family as you captured beautiful portraits of our kids as they grew up. RIP Ron!”

Kristy Dryden—“Uncle Ron was a wonderful person, so full of life & love.”

Susie Slatten Niedergerke-Brummer—“You guys were certainly a couple to look up to.”

Norm and Kitty Grossman—“We enjoyed teaching at Montgomery with you and Ron.”

Leslie Hoffman—“I just heard the train go through…I never hear one without thinking of Ron.”

Sandy Jones—“Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Kent, Kelli and your families.”

Ruth Ann LaRue—“Yes, you were very lucky to have a loving marriage for 40 years with such a lovely man.”

Sterling Green—“Had Ron as a Biology teacher and Student Council sponsor during 1971-72. He will be missed.”

Dave Cunningham—“When Ron and I worked together at the funeral home we always talked about cars. He will be missed.”

Gregory Houston—“Ron was instrumental in my science education and I’m sure helped lead me to my working career as a dentist.”

Debbie Ludy—“So sorry to hear of the loss of a very intelligent and talented man.”

Kelly Slatten—“Ron was one of my favorite teachers.”

Todd Mackey—“WE are so lucky to have known Ron, such a kind and gentle man. I will miss seeing him on the lake fly fishing and the neighborly visits. But what a great life he had!”

Michael Nichols—“Always enjoyed Ron’s stories at Rotary. He will be missed.”

Betty Correia—“He was my science teacher from Malta Bend.”

Cathi Stoecklin Finch—“Ron was in Jonesburg Elementary School with my brother. I remember Ron as one of the older ‘guys.”

Alexie Knackstedt—“He was so wonderful and a joy to work with at the funeral home.”

Sherrie Todd-Beshore—“Some people leave a greater void when they leave – and Ron was one of those people…Lucky Lucky Heaven.”

Joe Weston—“Meeting Ron through Columbia South Rotary opened the door to a nice friendship. He served the club faithfully with his ever-present smile and good nature. All who got to cross paths and walk part of life’s journey with Ron are fortunate. His devotion to Marsha was his highest calling. We’re sorry for your loss of this wonderful guy.”

Don Toebben—“I am so sorry for your loss! We met both of you when we bought your Corvette. I felt bad taking his pride and joy but we still have it.”

Kim Jacobi Bosworth—“He was one of my favorite teachers.”

Mark Saak—“He was a great man and you and the family are in our thoughts and prayers.”

Dave Jungmeyer—“The Wednesday before Ron’s passing we talked about being strangers here and Heaven our home. Little did I realize how soon Ron would be home. He is at peace but we will miss him. I feel fortunate to have known Ron. Our love to you Marsha.”

Bob Hammerschmidt—“We were so saddened to hear about Ron’s passing. Knudsen Photography pictures still have places of honor in our home.”

Larry Houston—“Many years have passed since I was a student of Mr. Knudsen’s at Malta Bend High School. Many times I have wanted to thank him for the inspiration he gave me to continue my interest in science and ultimately become a Medical Doctor. I have been a Family Practitioner in Overland Park, Kansas for 32 years.”

Doug and Jennifer Weable—“Ron was a gentle soul. I met Ron a number of years ago at a clean-up around the neighborhood clubhouse. The one thing I recognized in Ron was that he knew no stranger. He was a friend to us all. Sitting here this morning watching the sun break over the horizon and shine on Ron & Marsha’s home, I’m reminded of how fortunate we all were to have him in our neighborhood community. His obituary is a clear depiction of his rich and full life. Ron will be sorely missed.”

Scripture Readings from Pastor Bruce Williamson who officiated the Memorial Service

Psalm 91

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust.” He will cover you with his feathers,

and under his wings you will find refuge; no harm will overtake you, For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways they will lift you up in their hands….

Ecclesiastes 3

There is a time for everything,

And a season for every purpose under the heavens:

God has made everything beautiful in its time.

He has also set eternity in the human heart.

There is nothing better for people than to be happy

And to do good while they live.

That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil

—that is the gift of God.

John 14 - Jesus Comforts His Disciples

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.

My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”

Songs for the Memorial Service:

“Keep Me In Your Heart For Awhile” - Warren Zevon

“Three Times A Lady” - Lionel Richie

“Humble and Kind” - Tim McGraw

“We’ll Meet Again” - Johnny Cash