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Stephen Michael Knudson, 72, of Lewistown, peacefully went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at home, surrounded by his family.
Born on July 24, 1953, in Lewistown, to James and Gwendolyn Knudson. Stephen was preceded in death by both of his parents. He is survived by his loving and caring wife, Lisa A. Knudson. He is also survived by two daughters, Jennifer Neal (Bryan) and Stephanie Beckenbaugh (Matt), as well as Ashley Thomas (Peter) and Alex Kaufman (Alison). Stephen is survived by 10 grandchildren, Lauryn Sechler (Malik), Gage Sunderland, Gracelynn and Dakotah Beckenbaugh, Liv, Drew, Sid and Van Thomas and Archer and Aria Kaufman. Also, two great-grandchildren. Stephen is also survived by three brothers, James Carter (Jody), Scott Knudson and Doug Knudson (Michelle).
A graduate of Lewistown Area High School, class of 1971, Stephen went on to study criminal justice at Harrisburg Area Community College. He began his esteemed career in law enforcement as a police officer in 1975 at the Lewistown Borough Police Department. Stephen was then promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1982. Stephen then worked for the Mifflin County Regional Police Department following the merger of Lewistown Police Department and Derry Township Police Department. In 2004, Stephen was promoted to the rank of Patrol Lieutenant of Mifflin County Regional Police. Following his retirement in 2008, Stephen continued to serve his community at Lewistown Police Department as a community service officer. Stephen resigned from this position in 2019.
Stephen was a true public servant. His time and commitment to his community can be seen in his many accolades. Stephen was a member of Bethel AME Church of Lewistown. He was a man known for his unwavering faith and love of the Lord. Stephen served on many committees, both at church and the community. Stephen was an integral part of implementing National Night Out, Cops 4 Kids, Fill-A-Cruiser, and served as a community liaison at Greenwood Village. Stephen and his wife Lisa thoroughly enjoyed organizing a Parkinson's support group for many years. Stephen was a prominent member of Lewistown Borough Council for the past 2.5 years. Stephen served on multiple committees, including Fire Ad Hoc, Personnel, and Finance. Stephen was also a proud member of the City Hook and Ladder Fire Company and held much admiration for the volunteers.
Stephen was an avid fisherman. He often mentioned how fishing 'saved him.' Stephen found solace and peace on the water. He thoroughly enjoyed exploring the Juniata River with his long-time fishing buddy, Mont Wilson.
Stephen will be greatly missed by his family and friends, but as the Bible says, "We rejoice in the promise of eternal life."
Stephen has now found peace in the arms of his Savior and in that we can find comfort.
Family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, with the service to follow, at King-Barr Funeral Home, 120 Logan Street, Lewistown.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Stephen's memory are respectfully encouraged to be donated to ROFF (Rescue Our Furry Friends) Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 6 Lewistown, PA 17044 or at www.roffrescue.org
Online condolences can be offered at www.kingbarrfuneralhome.com.