Merle Gene Knudson

ROCHESTER - Merle G. Knudson, age 90, died Friday, July 17, 2015 at the Seminary Home in Red Wing, MN. Merle Gene Knudson was born Feb. 23, 1925 in Alden, Iowa to Frank and Alice (Fuller) Knudson. He was raised in Alden and after graduating from high school in Cedar Falls, Iowa he served in the U.S. Navy, stationed in Okinawa, during WWII. He played with various bands during his deployment. Following his discharge he attended the Iowa State Teachers College for two years. He married Edythe Krough in 1949, they had two sons, and were later divorced.
Merle was an accomplished Jazz Saxophone Musician throughout his entire life. He started his career in music as a road musician and played with many Big Bands. After moving to Rochester he also worked as a Road Salesman for a local music store, selling to school bands. He formed a seventeen piece Jazz Ensemble performing in the Rochester area and held a yearly Jazz clinic for High School Bands, the first of its kind in the area. Merle started American Guttering Service in Rochester in the early 1960's operating it until his retirement. He was also a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, Rochester Art Center, Rochester Home Builders Association, and the AF and AM Lodge #437. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and a Shriner. He later moved to the Twin Cities area and collaborated with many musicians and bands.
Survivors include two sons, Bradley (Babs) of Red Wing; and Lon (Kristine) of Rochester, several grandchildren, and great grandchildren, nephew Gary (Barbara) Knudson, and niece Judy (Jerry) Rundel. His parents, brother Arthur, and sister Arlene preceded him in death.
Merle donated his body to the University of Minnesota. A family service will be held. Mahn Family Funeral Home - Rochester Chapel is in charge of arrangements.