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Dennis Knutson, age 90 of Hettinger, ND, passed away September 25, 2026, at CHI St. Alexius Health in Bismarck after a brief battle with West Nile virus. Dennis was born June 26, 1936, to John and Kathryn Knutson and grew up on the family farm southwest of Lodgepole, SD, alongside his four siblings. He graduated from Hettinger High School in 1955 and was a valued contributor to both the football and track teams.

Following high school, Dennis attended Rapid City College before returning home to partner with his father in the family water well drilling business. Throughout his life, he drilled and serviced water wells throughout southwest North Dakota and northwest South Dakota, providing water to hundreds of homeowners, farmers and ranchers. Even after his son, Robert, took over the family business, Dennis continued working on the rig and remaining involved up to his final days.

In addition to his well drilling work, Dennis continued to farm the family homestead.  For many years, he spent evenings and weekends working the land along with longtime friend, Bob Kudrna.

Dennis married his life-long partner and love, Eva Beehler in 1958.  Together they built a wonderful life, raising five children and later enjoying their five grandchildren.  Throughout the years Dennis and Eva have faithfully attended the many activities and events of their children and grandchildren.

Dennis and Eva enjoyed teaching dance classes for several years to local couples. Outside of work and family, Dennis enjoyed golf, fishing, horseshoes, reading and pinochle with friends. He was involved in numerous community and civic organizations, including the Jaycees, Eagles, West River Hospital Board and Beauty of Hettinger.  He also served as president of the North Dakota Well Driller Association for several years and remained a dedicated fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Twins throughout his life.

Dennis was a quiet, hardworking and honest man with a wonderful sense of humor. He valued family, friendship and community and was always willing to lend a helping hand. A long-time member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Dennis had a strong faith in God.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Eva; his children, Dean (Stephanie), Kevin, Robert (Rhonda) and daughter Lisa (Lynn); and daughter-in-law Julie, wife of late son, Douglas.  He is also survived by his grandchildren, Nicholas, Lexine, Ryan (Samantha), Rebecca and Samantha; sister Charlene Tank (Dennis); sister-in-law Bonnie Walch (Wayne); brother-in-law Francis Beehler (Karen); sisters-in-law Ada Jean Cornella and Viola Beehler; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and valued friends.

He is preceded in death by his son, Douglas; grandson, AJ; brothers Jay and David; and sister Ada; and numerous other family members and friends.

Visitation will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 1st at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Hettinger, ND, followed by a Rosary and Vigil at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral services will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 2nd at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, officiated by Father Greg Hilzendeger. Following the Mass, burial will take place at Hettinger Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to West River Health Services or Holy Trinity Catholic Church.