Jerald Knudsen

Jerald Ernest Knudsen was born on May 6, 1947, the son of Henry and Ruby (Andersen) Knudsen in Harlan, Iowa. He was baptized and later confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church near Jacksonville. Jerald received his education at a country school in Shelby County.

On September 7, 1968, Jerald was united in marriage to Beverly Ahrenholtz at the United Methodist Church in Defiance. They were blessed with three children: Jalene, Brian and Keevan. The family made their home in Harlan for several years before moving to Charter Oak in October of 1981. Jerald worked at Iowa Beef Processors, later known as Tyson Foods, in Denison, where he remained until his well-deserved retirement. Following retirement, he enjoyed keeping busy by helping local farmers.

Jerald was a member of the United Methodist Church in Charter Oak. He enjoyed watching NASCAR on television and, in his younger years, even participated in stock car racing in Harlan. He had a love for tractors and spending time outdoors, especially gardening and keeping busy with various unfinished projects. Jerald also enjoyed visiting with others, reading the Grapevine newspaper, listening to polka music and watching the RFD channel. He had a special fondness for his cats.

Although Jerald did not have biological grandchildren, he held Logan Blume, Ava Liza and Ben Klinker close to his heart and loved them as his own. He especially enjoyed attending their sporting events and cheering them on.

Jerald experienced the heartbreaking loss of his two sons, Keevan and Brian, which deeply affected him. His family finds comfort and peace in knowing that he is now reunited with his sons in the presence of the Lord, and they look forward to the day when they will all be together again.

Jerald passed away at his home in Charter Oak at the age of 79 years, six months and two days. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sons: Keevan Knudsen and Brian Knudsen; sister, Janelle Noel; and two nieces: Michelle Noel and Heather Noel.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Knudsen of Charter Oak; daughter, Jalene Knudsen of Denison; sister, Judy Knudsen of Elk Horn; brother-in-law, Galen Ahrenholtz of Clive; and other relatives and friends.

His funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 12, 2026, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., all at the Huebner Funeral Home in Charter Oak. Interment will follow in the Charter Oak Cemetery. The family will direct memorials.