Jan G. Knudten

Jan G. Knudten of Waukesha, WI, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at the age of 77 after a very brief and courageous fight against cancer.  

Jan was born on May 7, 1947 in Milwaukee, WI to John and Loraine Knudten. Jan graduated from Washington High School in 1965. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in June 1966 and was discharged in April 1970. Jan proudly served in the Vietnam War as an airplane mechanic with an E-4 ranking. Upon discharge from the Air Force, Jan pursued a career in law enforcement serving his community in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Jan was a member of the FBI National Academy. Jan continued his collegiate education and received a Bachelor’s Degree in 1992 from Mount Senario College. Jan retired from active law enforcement in 2006 proudly serving as a Captain of the City of Waukesha Police Department. He then enjoyed his next career, teaching law enforcement in the criminal justice program at Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) and managing the WCTC firing range. 

Jan’s pride and joy was his family. He married his wife, Esther, in October 1972 at Hales Corners Lutheran Church and enjoyed 51 ½ years of marriage. Jan and Esther were blessed with one daughter, Kerin. Jan was a proud father-in-law to his son-in-law, Daniel. But his greatest blessings were his grandchildren, Marisa (21), Julia (19) and Zachary (17). 

Jan loved spending his time doing home improvement projects, spending time in his workshop, vacationing in Northern Wisconsin, especially boating and fishing with his family. Jan loved woodworking. He created many pieces of furniture and treasured gifts for each of his family members.  

Jan was preceded in death by his parents, John and Loraine Knudten. He is survived by his wife of 51 1/2 years, Esther; his daughter Kerin (Daniel); grandchildren, Marisa, Julia and Zachary; grand puppies Charlie and Bailey; sisters Audrey and Joyce as well as many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family that will miss him dearly. 

A private service was held for Jan’s immediate family. 

Randle-Dable Brisk Funeral Home is honored to serve the family. For further information, please call the funeral home at 262-547-4035 or visit our website at www.randledable.com to leave an online tribute.