Hilda Maxine Knudsen (née Mills), lovingly known as Maxine or Mack, passed away peacefully at Cypress Regional Hospital in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, on June 18, 2025, at the age of 82.
Born on April 27 1943, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, to Earl and Hilda Mills.
Maxine grew up on the family farm and attended school in Chaplin. In 1961 she married the love of her life, Kenneth Knudsen, launching a life of partnership and adventure. Together they owned and operated a sawmill near Carrot River in the winter months and in Spring they went south to Shamrock, where they farmed alongside Ken’s brother John and sister-in-law Dorothy. Ken and Maxine had three sons. Clinton, Kelly and Rodney. They enjoyed watching their sons play hockey and ball and enjoyed the camaraderie with friends and family. After retiring, the couple settled on a beautiful acreage just outside Swift Current, creating a welcoming home and garden that reflected Maxine’s flair for beauty.
Maxine’s creativity and generous spirit touched every aspect of her life. Whether redecorating a room, refinishing furniture, or crafting handmade treasures, she poured artistry and care into everything she did. She also shared her talents as a floral designer for her daughter-in-law, Carla. A dedicated volunteer, Maxine spent many years serving with the Shamrock Lioness Club and was always the first to visit friends and neighbours in hospital or long-term care. She and Ken also volunteered in their retirement years at MCC.
Her loved ones will remember Maxine for her spunky, spirited personality that could liven up any room, and for her boundless compassion. She was forever thinking of and caring for others.
Most importantly, Maxine was a woman of deep Christian faith who passed her love for Jesus on to her children and grandchildren, leaving a legacy of steadfast devotion.
She is survived by her loving family, husband of 64 years, Ken Knudsen; sons Clinton (Heather), Kelly (Carla), and Rodney (Connie); grandchildren Craig, Dustin, Amber, Tyler, Heidi, Prairie, Braden, Aleisha and twelve cherished great-grandchildren; brothers Ken, Walter, and Raymond Mills.
Maxine is predeceased by her parents Earl and Hilda Mills, sister Bernice Dyck, and granddaughter Sarah Knudsen.
A Celebration of Maxine’s Life will be held June 27, 2025 at 1:00 p.m., at the Kelstern Community Church, with interment at Shamrock Municipal Cemetery, and a luncheon to follow at Shamrock Community Hall.
Maxine’s radiant smile, generous heart, and unwavering faith will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.