Thomas "T-Bone" Knutson

Thomas Roger Knutson, 73, known to most simply as Tom and to a lucky few as T‑Bone, was born in Fargo, North Dakota, on March 17, 1953, and wrapped up his remarkable life in the same city on August 6, 2026. Tom was a rock and roller to the very end and uniquely himself every step of the way.

Tom grew up in Fargo as the eldest of four brothers, a role he embraced with pride, mischief, and the patience unique to an oldest sibling. Under his mother Shirley’s guidance, the Knutson household was lively, noisy, and chaotic, likely shaping Tom’s sense of humor and gentle demeanor. After graduating from Fargo South High School, he quickly discovered his passion for music. A talented keyboard and organ player, he toured across the country with bands like the Roughriders and Anything Goes, gaining stories, friendships, and probably a few questionable hotel receipts. His talent was evident; his musical taste impeccable, and his love for rock and roll enduring.

Eventually, Tom traded the touring life for raising kids, working many years as a painter at Case New Holland, and building a life he was proud of. One of his proudest moments was marrying Nicole, the love of his life, and buying a home together. Nicole was his favorite person, his best friend, and the center of his world. If Tom was doing something fun, interesting, or mildly chaotic, Nicole was usually nearby.

Tom’s passions were endless and delightfully nerdy: astronomy, model rockets, airplanes, trains, steam engines, gardening, bicycling, camping, and anything involving nature or science. He loved good food, good beer, good company, and, of course, good music. He was an active part of Fargo’s bar and music scene from an early age, playing with various bands across the FM area throughout his life. He was also a former Boy Scout leader and a former member of the FM Astronomy Club.

But nothing lit him up like being a grandfather. Alivia and Ansley were the pride of his life, and he adored every moment he spent with them. His kids and grandkids knew him as gentle, goofy, smart, and endlessly supportive. His humor was one‑of‑a‑kind, his passions contagious, and his presence unforgettable.

Tom is survived by his wife, Nicole Knutson (Lies); his children, Kirsten (Matt) Earley, Brad (Alicia) Knutson, Jenny (Keith) Mernitz, and Mike Knutson; his grandchildren, Siv and Lula Earley, Alivia and Ansley Knutson; his brothers, Jim and Jerry (Jane) Knutson; his mother-in-law Yvonne Lies; his nieces, nephews and many friends who loved him dearly. He is preceded in death by his parents, Myron and Shirley Knutson; his father-in-law, Art Lies; and his brother, Dick Knutson.

Tom’s life was full of music, laughter, curiosity, and love. His sense of humor, gentle nature, and passion for the things he loved will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy of creativity, kindness, and stories that will be told for years to come.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Thomas Roger Knutson, who passed away on August 6, 2026. Tom lived with many passions and filled his days with music and laughter.

Those who knew Tom will remember his gentle nature (and impeccable taste in music). He had a way of making memories with everyone he met and made people feel included.

Please join us for a celebration of life on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Boulger Funeral Home. Guests are encouraged to wear something they think Tom would have liked (band tees, tie-dye, etc.). In Tom’s honor, the family invites you to send plants or donations in lieu of flowers.