JoAnn Agnes Knutson, 63, of Cook, MN passed away on Thursday, September 3, 2020 at home with loved ones by her side.

JoAnn was born to Gordon and Lillian (Trygg) Anderson on October 16, 1956 in Cook, MN. JoAnn attended school in Cook, graduating from Cook High School in 1975. JoAnn earned an Associates of Arts Degree in Human Services from Mesabi College and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Bemidji State University, graduating in 1991.

JoAnn met Joel Knutson and they were united in marriage in 1992 in Cook, MN. JoAnn taught Head Start and Early Childhood classes for 18 years and was employed with RSI in Cook for 4 years. She retired in 2012 to enjoy more time with her husband and family.

JoAnn enjoyed playing computer games and loved to play board games with the kids. She also enjoyed baking with them. She loved camping, fishing, and time at the cabin. She always enjoyed her weekend getaways with friends and girl's night out. Her favorite time was spent with her family.

Everyone will remember JoAnn for her generous spirit and especially her love for children of all ages. JoAnn was a very giving person.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents; sister Karen Harrison and brother-in-law Tom Harrison.

JoAnn is survived by her husband, Joel Knutson of Cook; sons: Steve (Andrea) Beal of Hastings, MN; Christopher (Kirsten) Beal of St. Paul, MN; Adam (Jennifer Edge) Beal of Minneapolis, MN; Daughters: Breyan (Al Gibson) Knutson of Cook, MN; Brittney (Les) Oberg of Cass Lake, MN; 11 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. Sisters: Janice (Paul) Bernier of Washburn, Wisconsin; Jeannie (Jim) Taylor of Cook, MN; brothers: Dan (Linda) Anderson of Hibbing, MN; and Jeff (Beth) Anderson of Tower, MN; numerous nieces, nephews; and many friends and caregivers.

A private family interment will be held at a later date. To leave an online condolence, visit www.mlakerfuneralhome.com