Knud Jacobsen—devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and proud American who never lost his Danish accent—passed away peacefully on March 23, 2025, at the age of 93. He lived a long, well-lived life, filled with love, humor, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to family and community.
Born on February 19, 1932, on the small island of Aarø in southern Denmark, Knud was one of five children, with three older brothers and a twin sister. He grew up on the family farm during the Nazi occupation of Denmark. Though their remote location shielded him from the worst of the war’s devastation, his wartime experiences shaped his view of the world.
After completing his schooling and serving a year in the Danish Army, Knud embarked on a new adventure in 1952, immigrating to California to work on his uncle’s dairy farm in Solvang. Arriving with no English but an abundance of determination, he was among the wave of Danes who made their way to Solvang when travel opened up after World War II. Just a week after his arrival, he met his future wife, Elisabeth Simonsen, at a local barn party.
A year later, in 1953, Knud was drafted into the U.S. Army. It was there he learned to speak and write English while preparing for deployment to Korea. Just two days before he was scheduled to ship out, his orders changed, and he was sent instead to war-ravaged Berlin. He passed through the Brandenburg Gate daily to the infamous Spandau Prison, where he guarded Nazi war criminal Rudolf Hess. Between his guard shifts, Knud studied for his U.S. citizenship, achieving it in 1954 while still stationed in Germany.
He returned to Solvang after his military service and married Elisabeth, who had patiently waited for him during his Army years. They built their life in Solvang, a place Knud always said was the best on earth. He cherished his time with family, loved the sunny climate, and had a deep sense of community. Together, he and Elisabeth raised three children—daughters Esther and Mary and son Glen—instilling in them a strong work ethic, love of family, and the value of friends and fun.
Knud spent his career in the construction industry, ultimately founding KJ Concrete Construction, which he ran until passing management to his son when he was 80. He took great pride in his perfect driving record and enjoyed cruising through the Santa Ynez Valley and Lompoc, proudly pointing out the buildings, patios, and structures he had helped build.
Over the years, Knud and Elisabeth traveled “home” to Denmark many times to visit family and friends. They also explored the United States and embarked on adventures through Norway’s fjords, the Panama Canal, Alaskan glaciers, and European waterways.
Knud was the “Old Dane” in Solvang, known for his strong handshake, sharp wit, and humorous nature. He took immense pride in his American citizenship and Danish heritage, balancing both identities with humor and community engagement. A dedicated member of Dania (69 years), the Danish Brotherhood (70 years), American Legion Post 160 (70 years), and Bethania Lutheran Church. He was actively involved in numerous organizations including the Solvang Lutheran Home (now Atterdag Village of Solvang), Bethania Lutheran Church, Elverhøj Museum, and the Rebild National Park Society. A longtime member of the Solvang Volunteer Fire Department, he was also an early member of the Vikings of Solvang, where he earned the distinction of Gold Cupper. In recognition of their years of dedication and involvement, he and Elisabeth were honored as Grand Marshals of the Danish Days Parade in 2008. A loyal friend, a master of the oak pit BBQ, and always ready to lend a hand, Knud left an enduring mark on his community.
His greatest joy, however, was his family. He was a fun-loving Bedstefar (grandfather) to seven and great-grandfather to seven more. Whether tending to his garden, hosting family barbecues, or gathering for coffee and pastry, Knud’s presence brought stories and laughter.
Knud was predeceased by his beloved wife, Elisabeth, and his son, Glen. He is survived by his daughters, Esther Jacobsen Bates (Mark) and Mary Place (Robert), as well as his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends in the community.
A celebration of Knud’s life will be held on April 11 at 11 a.m. at Bethania Lutheran Church in Solvang. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in his honor to Atterdag Village of Solvang, Bethania Lutheran Church, Viking Charities or a charity of your choice—continuing Knud’s legacy of generosity and community spirit.