Paul W. Knutsen

Paul W. Knutsen, age 59, of Machesney Park, Illinois passed away on Wednesday, April 26, 2023. Paul was born on September 10, 1963, in Freeport, Illinois, to Donna and Raymond Knutsen. He married Heather on October 17, 1998, here locally. He was well known for his infectious laugh and loved making people smile. Most recently, Paul was employed with Lowe's distribution center in Rockford as a transportation supervisor. Every year he enjoyed dressing as Santa for the Lowe's Christmas party, as well as the Knutsen Christmas party.

Paul enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brothers, father, and friends at the family cabin in Galena. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, making trips and even attending Sturgis. He adored his family and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. Paul enjoyed the company of his dogs, Oreo, Snickers, and Brownie. He liked to take them for walks every weekend.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Heather; parents, Donna and Raymond; children, Stacie Knutsen, Nathan (Joanna) Knutsen, and Neil (Megan) Brandt; grandchildren, Keegan, Kaycee, Lianne, Jason and Ryland; siblings, Robin Swanson, Steve (Karen) Knutsen, Tonda (Mark) Melenas, Sue (Ova) Parr, Ray (Darcey) Knutsen and Marcie Knutsen; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; mother-in-law, Julie Ferguson; sister-in-law, Justine (Chris) Nelson.

Paul was preceded in death by brothers, Mark Knutsen and Chris Lawrence; sister, Julene Zawislak; maternal and paternal grandparents; father-in-law, Richard Ferguson.

A memorial gathering for Paul will take place Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at Sunset Funeral Home from 3:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. The family invites you to wear your favorite Harley attire.