He was born on May 6, 1941 in Huron, S.D. to Howard and Alma Scotter Knutz. Jack spent his early years in South Dakota until the family moved to McMinnville when he was 10 years old. He graduated from McMinnville High School in the class of 1959. He served in the United States Army and was stationed overseas for a time before his honorable discharge when he returned home. Jack was united in marriage to Catharen E. Fry on July 30, 1965 in McMinnville. They moved with their three children to Hermiston in 1975 where he has lived since. Jack started Inland Plumbing in 1985. He owned and operated Inland Plumbing as well as operated his farm for many years. He enjoyed cars, cows, horses, and watching his grandchildren play sports.
He is survived by his sons, Darren Knutz & wife Vanessa, Jason Knutz & wife Diane; daughter, Trisha Hoofard & husband Steve; sister, Vonna Harper; 12 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Catharen Knutz; his parents; a brother, Larry Knutz; and a sister, Alma Lee Schwarz.
A private family celebration gathering will be held.
Those who wish may make contributions in Jack’s memory to the Victory Baptist Church, Hermiston.
Jack’s family would like to encourage others to get early screening and testing for colon cancer.
Please sign the online guest book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
