Vance Carlyle Knutson 79 of Austin, Minn., died, Nov. 25, 2010 at his home.

Vance was born Nov. 13, 1931 in Rake, Iowa to Edward and Ella (Ulven) Knutson. He graduated from Austin High School in 1949.

He married Grace Anderson on July 12, 1952 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin. She preceded him in death on Feb. 22, 1988. Vance also served in the U.S. Air Force from 1952 – 1955. He is also a retired employee of Hormel Foods, retiring in 1992 with 41 years of service. He was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church, The Elks Club and the V.F.W.

He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and golf.

Suvivors include two sons: Charles and Scott Knutson; grandchildren: Anna Schrader, Peter Knutson, Evan Knutson, David Knutson, Ben Knutson and Nick Knutson; great grandchildren: Mason and Carter Schrader; A bother: Willard Knutson, Longview, Texas and a sister-in-law: Phyllis Knutson, Austin, Minn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a son Thomas and his brother Allen.

A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 29, 2010 at St. Olaf Lutheran Church with Rev Kristi Koppel officiating. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Sunday at Mayer Funeral Home and one hour before the service at the church on Monday. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery.