On Oct 29, 2009, after a 10-year fight with breast cancer, Rhonda, with her family by her side, chose to join her father and son; a decision her family supported.
Rhonda (Hlavaty) Knudson was born July 29, 1954 in Port Angeles, Wash. At the age of 14, she moved with her family to Arlington where they purchased Stilly Auto Parts and it became a family run business.
Rhonda graduated from Arlington High School in 1972 and married her high school sweetheart, Mike Knudson, in 1973. In 1987, Mike and Rhonda purchased the NAPA store from her parents where they have worked together ever since. Rhonda loved her NAPA family and customers, her community, camping, cooking, reading, Schweitzer, ‘da beautiful snow and most of all, her family.
Rhonda spent hours watching, cheering, and supporting baseball; it was her passion. She followed any sports teams that her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews played. She was known for always lending a helping hand and loving support to anyone who needed it, in any situation. Rhonda was active with the Silvana Community Assoc, Fair Board and Fire Dept. and she was the only woman on the National Ad Council for NAPA.
Rhonda is survived by loving husband of 36 years, Mike, their 2 sons; Ryan (Kelli) Knudson and Colby(Tisha) Knudson; and beautiful grandchildren; Syvannah, Alex, Cadynce and Camden. She also leaves her mother; Cleone Hlavaty, father and mother in-law; Ben and Evelyn Knudson, sister; Sandie (Tom) Cooper, brother; Wade Hlavaty and much loved nieces and nephews along with her dear friends; the Strotz family and the worthless cat; Edna.
Rhonda is joining her son; Adam, father; Roy and beloved cocker spaniel; Heidi.
Rhonda was the bravest, most courageous woman we have ever known. Her tenacity in her long fought battle with breast cancer amazed and inspired all who knew her. She will be missed and will live in our thoughts and hearts forever.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 4 at Peace Lutheran Church in Silvana. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Rhonda’s memory to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
