Loretta Knudson

   Loretta Marion Knudson, 81, of Portland, ND, passed away Monday, April 4, 2022, at Luther Memorial Home in Mayville, ND. 

   Loretta was born on May 11, 1940, at Sharon Community Hospital, in Sharon, ND.  Her parents were M.O. and Orpha (Mustad) Mickelson of rural Finley, ND.  Loretta grew up in the Finley area and was baptized at Sheyenne Valley Lutheran Church and confirmed at Ostervold Lutheran Church. Loretta graduated from Finley Public School in 1958.  

   Loretta attended Mayville State College and received a One Year Rural Teaching Degree in 1959 and later a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education in 1968.  She taught in a one-room schoolhouse in Primrose Township, Steele County; Northwood Public School; and Mayville Elementary School. 

   On June 18, 1966, Loretta married Kenard Knudson at Finley Lutheran Church. Loretta and Kenard were blessed with two children, Kari and Kipp.  Loretta was a devoted wife and mother, always willing to help on the farm and never missing special events in the lives of her family.  

   For several years, Loretta owned and operated the Country Greenhouse.  She loved the outdoors, nature, and wildlife. She adored her pets and also the variety of livestock that 4-H projects brought to the farm.  She enjoyed tending her many flower gardens.   Loretta was an excellent baker and made sure every lunch box contained a homemade treat. Her trips to Norway to visit extended family brought her great joy and created many special memories.  

   Loretta is survived by her husband of 55 years, Kenard, of Portland; daughter Kari Knudson, of Bismarck; son Kipp Knudson and his wife Marlana, of Portland; grandchildren Grant and Reid Strand, of Portland; her beloved dachshund Toby; several extended family members and dear friends.

   Blessed be the memory of Loretta Marion Knudson.

Visitation:  Will be 5–7 PM on Friday, April 8, 2022 with a 6:30 PM Public Prayer Service at the Baker Funeral Home Chapel in Mayville, ND and will resume one hour prior to the service at the church.

Funeral Service: Will be held at 10:30 AM Saturday, April 9, 2022 at the Bruflat Lutheran Church in Portland, ND.

Burial: Will be in the Perry Cemetery in rural Portland, ND.