Michael Victor Knight

Michael Victor Knight, 65, passed away peacefully on May 4th, 2026 at his family home in Independence. He was a proud fifth-generation resident of Minnesota. A striking and disciplined athlete, Mike was a three-sport starter at Anoka High School, where he captained the wrestling team to a state championship. He attended Augustana College, where he competed in both baseball and wrestling, and the Hamline School of Law before embarking on a hard-fought career as an entrepreneur. For over 30 years, Mike served as a nationally renowned turnaround consultant. He was a natural leader who helped hundreds of struggling companies make their way from bankruptcy to solvency. With a deep heart of service, he supported numerous charities and nonprofits and was an avid proponent of pro bono work. He had an indelible impact on the many athletes and young people he nurtured and coached. A true renaissance man, Mike was a gifted visual artist who could sketch and paint from memory. He was a voracious reader, a sharp intellectual, and a superior marksman. He even made an on-screen appearance as a member of the Minnesota Twins in the Hollywood picture "Little Big League." Mike's greatest pride, however, was his family. Mike built a legacy anchored in hard work, empathy, ingenuity, humility, humor, and faith. Mike was a passionate Christ follower and a loving, present father and mentor. His favorite moments were spent with his wife and four children: coaching sports, traveling, camping, bike riding, or simply talking and telling stories late into the evening. He loved old-school country music, the History Channel, sour candy, the quiet of the woods, and colorful sunsets. Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years Carine; his four children Brian and wife Kelsey, Trevor and wife Melinda, Stephanie, and Emily and husband Grant; granddaughters Anna, Claire, Lucy, Lainey and Rosiah; sister Kerri, brother Darren, and father Michael Sr. He was preceded in death by his mother Beverly. Mike leaves behind a lasting reminder: pursue your goals with unending passion, believe in your abilities, pause and take in the moment, have compassion for the struggles of others, speak of ideas and not of people, leave room to laugh, and always strive to be better. And after a big meal, never skip the "closure" (dessert). He will be deeply missed by those who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 16th, 2026 at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Plymouth, Minnesota. Visitation will take place at 10AM, with Service at 11AM and lunch to follow.

Michael Victor Knight

July 27, 1960 - May 4, 2026

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