Knutson (Dicks), Josephine "Jo"

Age 92, of Apple Valley, passed away on May 28, 2025. She was preceded in death by parents John and Dorothy Fix (Schnetter); firsthusband Richard Dicks; second husband Lee Knutson; 4 brothers(William, John, Raymond, Joseph) and 4 sisters (Katherine, Mary, Regina, Margaret).

She is survived by son Harvey of Garrison; daughters Betty Jo of Garrison, and Linda (Carol) of Bloomington; granddaughter Lisa, 3 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild, all of Mississippi; sister Dorothy Vavra; sister-in-law Sharon Fix; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at 11am at St Patrick's Catholic Church, Hinckley, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation Tuesday, June 3, from 5-8pm at Tatting-Methven funeral home, Hinckley. Interment at Rosehill Cemetery, Hinckley.

She was known as Josephine on her side of the family, and Jo to most everyone else. Josephine was born on the family farm in Hinckley, MN, the sixth child of ten. She attended a one-room schoolhouse for grades 1 thru 8. She went to Hinckley High School with the Class of 1951. Josephine worked as a waitress for three years at the Beanery, which is now the Hinckley Fire Museum.

Jo was introduced to her first husband, Rich, by her two best friends, Lu and Gert. They were Rich's sisters. Jo and Rich married in 1954 and moved around for a few years before settling in Bloomington, MN, when Rich got a job at the Ford assembly plant. Along the way, they had three children – Harvey, Betty Jo and Linda.

Jo worked as a Pharmacy Technician for almost 20 years; fourteen at Holiday Plus in Bloomington. Jo also enjoyed volunteering in the community, at church, and at the kids' schools.

After Rich's retirement, they moved to their hometown of Hinckley, MN. Shortly thereafter, they bought a home in Arizona and enjoyed spending winter months there. Rich passed away in 2001, just short of their 47th anniversary.

In 2002, Jo met Leland "Lee" Knutson while wintering in Arizona. Lee was also from Minnesota. They continued their relationship back in Minnesota and were married in 2003.

Jo and Lee lived at Summerhill Co-op in Apple Valley for 17 years, where Jo enjoyed being leader of the morning exercise class. She jumped at any chance to play Bingo or cards. She and Lee enjoyed traveling, including three cruises and several group bus tours. Lee and Jo were also in charge of the rose garden, so could be seen working outside many days during the growing season. Jo sang with the Velvet Tones (55+ choral group) for many years. She also enjoyed crocheting and watching baseball. Lee and Jo were married for 17 years, until Lee's passing in 2021.

After Lee's death, Jo moved to Memory Care at Ecumen Seasons of Apple Valley, where she received outstanding care during her four years living there. Grace Hospice added exceptionally compassionate care during the last six months. She continued to enjoy playing Bingo, card games, puzzles, singing, watching movies, and sitting out on the patio watching the ducks on the pond. She greatly enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune, with daughters coordinating calls each evening to remind her when it was about to start. She will always be remembered for her bright smile, cheerful singing, and joyful spirit.