Luvern Marvin Knutson

Luvern Marvin Knutson, 93, of Springfield, Nebraska, passed away on April 29, 2026. Born October 14, 1932, Luvern lived a life defined by steady work, steadfast loyalty, and a generous, kind-hearted way of showing up for the people he loved—day after day, season after season.

From an early age, Luvern understood responsibility. He had to leave school after the 6th grade to help with farming, and that early sacrifice became the foundation of a lifetime belief in honest effort and doing what needed to be done. That same work ethic stayed with him always—quietly, consistently, and with pride.

Luvern proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. After his service, he found a career he truly loved as a truck driver, earning many safety awards along the way—recognition that reflected not only skill, but care for others on the road. He also worked at Kiewit for 30 years, and even in retirement he wasn’t one to sit still for long, continuing part-time truck driving and taking joy in the everyday routines he valued. He loved his gardens and mowing, and there was a special satisfaction for him in a job well done—whether it was behind the wheel or behind a mower.

Luvern was married to Edith (Erickson) for 46 years, and together they built a family that remained the center of his world. They welcomed two children, Debbie and Diane, and over the years their family grew to include many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. After Edith’s passing, Luvern found companionship again with Viola Roberts, who was a great companion to him for many years.

Those who knew Luvern knew where he was happiest: close to home, close to his work, and close to the simple pleasures that made life rich. He loved to garden, and he had a spot out at Marty and Debbie’s where he planted a garden every year—his spot. There, he built buildings, sat around a fire pit, and enjoyed a beer, content in the company of family and the comfort of familiar ground. He also enjoyed tinkering and spending time in his garage, always keeping his hands busy and his mind engaged. And when it was time to rest, he could often be found watching Westerns on TV—stories of grit and loyalty that fit the rhythm of the life he lived.

In his final season, Luvern was surrounded by care and gratitude. The family offers heartfelt thanks to Kristin, Luvern’s hospice nurse, remembered as a wonderful, caring person whose compassion made a lasting difference. And even as his health declined, Luvern remained himself—full of stories to tell, advice to give, and appreciation for the love shown to him. “We will miss Dad,” his family shared, grateful for the time spent together and for the words he made sure were said.

Luvern’s favorite saying captured his spirit in just a few words: “Glad you got to see me!” It was classic Luvern—warm, welcoming, and quietly uplifting, a reminder that presence mattered and that every visit was something to be thankful for.

VISITATION will be held at Kahler Dolce Mortuary, 441 North Washington Street, Papillion, on May 9, 2026, at 10:00 am, with MEMORIAL SERVICE beginning at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Open Door mission, 2828 North 23rd Street East, Omaha, Nebraska 68110, or online at https://opendoormission.org/donate/.