Margaret Elizabeth Knutzen, longtime resident of Federal Way, passed away Feb. 22, 2009, at Garden Terrace in Federal Way. She was 93.

She is survived by three of her four children: Jim Knutzen (Susan) of Jacksonville, Fla; Jerry Knutzen (Dinah) and Ingrid (Ronald) Gintz of Federal Way; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Her husband, Victor Knutzen, and her son John Knutzen (Lenore) preceded her in death.

Margaret was born May 10, 1915, in Yakima. She was the oldest daughter of Anton and Hulda Carlson and was preceded in death by her five sisters and four brothers.

Margaret’s husband of 57 years, Victor Knutzen, preceded her in death in July 1997. Margaret and Vic married on Aug. 31, 1940. Their first home was in Seattle, but they moved to Federal Way in 1946. Margaret was the longest continuing member of Steel Lake Presbyterian Church, having joined the church in 1952. Margaret and Vic were active members of the community. Margaret helped establish the first kindergarten in Federal Way, and filled many leadership roles including PTA president, den mother, campfire leader, USO volunteer and church deacon. In 1997, Margaret, Victor and their children chose to give back to the Federal Way community by contributing to the new performing arts theater in Federal Way, named the Knutzen Family Theatre, in perpetual honor of family.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at Steel Lake Presbyterian Church, 1829 S. 308th St., Federal Way. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Steel Lake Presbyterian Church. Friends are invited to share memories and sign the family's online guestbook at www.yahnandson.com.