Jesse Lee Knutowski, age 69, passed on to be reunited with his beloved mother, Patricia Freda, as well as his stepdad Kenneth Freda, and brothers Nick Knutowski and Chris (Tama) Knutowski, as well as many other family members and friends.

He is survived by his long time partner Tricia Summers and her children, Jeremy (Rose), Emily, Zach and Zeb. Also survived by his father Ronald Knutowski and stepmom Dot Knutowski, his brother Ron (Christy) Knutowski, his sister Lisa (Herb) Schwingshakl, nieces and nephews as well as other family members and friends.

Jesse was a unique and free spirited man who had a great love for nature and music. He was always willing to help anyone in need and in particular took loving care of his mother full time during her last few years. He will be deeply missed by many and although we would have liked to have more time with him we take comfort in knowing he is in a beautiful and peaceful place with the rest of our family and Jesus who we know welcomed him in his loving embrace.

In lieu of flowers, and to honor Jesse's deep love of trees and nature, and his request to have trees planted in his honor, please consider making a memorial donation to keep our parks and forests green:

Milwaukee County Parks: Donate to The Park People (parkpeoplemke.org) to plant or adopt a local park tree.

Wisconsin State Forests: Donate to the Wisconsin DNR Forests for the Future Fund (dnr.wisconsin.gov) to support reforestation on state lands.

A Nature Organization of Your Choice: Support any conservation or tree-planting charity that holds meaning for you.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday September 30, at Hartson Funeral Home, 11111 W. Janesville Rd, Hales Corners, WI from 11:00 am to Noon, with a service to follow and a procession for a blessing at Forest Home Cemetery at 2405 W. Forest Home Ave. Milwaukee.