VERNON E. KNUDSON

VERNON KNUDSON

Dr. Vernon Knudson, 91, of Cooperstown, ND died Friday, January 17th at Dakota Regional Medical Center in Cooperstown. 

 Vernon Everett Knudson was born September 13, 1933, the son of Knute and Evaline Knudson. He was raised on a ranch south of Taylor, ND, and graduated from Taylor High School in 1951. He attended NDSU for two years before joining the army, where he was stationed at Fort Bliss, TX. From there, he attended the University of Minnesota, graduating with a degree in Veterinary medicine in 1961. 

 He married Lois Hendrickson on September 10th, 1960 in Finlayson, MN. After graduation, they moved to Cooperstown, where he joined the practice of Dr. Delbert Clark and Dr. Laverne Larson. He was a large animal vet and the practice bookkeeper for many years. 

 Vernon served on many boards. He was proud to be director of the Griggs County Historical Society for over a decade. During that time, they created the Cold War Museum and The Ronald Reagan Minutemen Missile Site Museum. He also served many years on the Fair Board. In 1992 he was named agriculturist of the year for Griggs Co. He was named North Dakota Veterinarian of the Year in 2016. 

 Vernon was a lifelong student of history, particularly that of North Dakota. Thanks to his exceptional memory, he was a skilled storyteller and would readily share family and historical events whether they occurred yesterday or long ago. He never forgot a name, face, or story. He was an avid reader and usually had several books going simultaneously. His career as a veterinarian was a true calling, and he was particularly known for his expertise in equine health and behavior. Anyone who had a horse needing attention called him. His pride and joy was his Percheron team. He also enjoyed raising Black Angus cattle and helping friends and customers with their herds. Vernon took a genuine interest in people. His family and friends will remember his devotion, community spirit, and willingness to lend a hand without question.

 Vernon is survived by his wife Lois, daughter Kristen (Gene) Stoick, Fargo, son John Knudson, Taylor, four grandchildren Jessica Zarchovacki, Mathew Habeck, Jared (Angie) Habeck, and Klint Knudson as well as three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Kenneth Knudson, sister Joyce Voorhees, and son Kenneth Knudson. 

 Memorials may be made to the Griggs County Fair Board, Dakota Regional Medical Center, or the charity of your choice. 

 Visitation will be Friday, January 24, 2025 from 5:00 pm till 7:00 pm in the Quam-Plaisted-Cushman Funeral Home in Cooperstown, ND with a Prayer Servicer at 7:00 pm, visitation will continue Saturday, January 25, 2025 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am in the Trinity Lutheran Church, Cooperstown, ND followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 am.