Knut Andres Baalerud June 30, 1959 – February 10, 2025

Knut Andres Baalerud, 65, of Marietta, GA, formerly of Oslo, Norway, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2025, surrounded by his wife, Emme Baalerud, and children, Andrew and Kristina Baalerud. Born in Oslo on June 30, 1959, Knut was the cherished son of the late Andres and Ingeborg (Mogan) Baalerud, and younger brother of Hans Baalerud.

Knut lived a remarkable life dedicated to his family, career, and community. He spent his childhood in Norway skiing in the mountains by their family cabin, biking around the neighborhood with friends, and swimming in the nearby fjords. After serving in the Norwegian military from 1978 to 1980, he earned his degree from BI Norwegian Business School in 1984. His pursuit of excellence led him to the Thunderbird School of Management, where he earned his MBA in 1990.

In 1983, Knut embraced new opportunities in America, beginning with an internship at Georgia Pacific in Atlanta, GA. His career flourished as he took on roles including International Accounts Manager at Georgia Pacific and Vice Consul for the Trade Commission of Norway in New York. After a tenure with Ruesch International, he joined United Parcel Service (UPS) in Atlanta in 1992, where he served with dedication for 31 years, retiring in 2023 as a respected Global Technology and Alliances leader.

Knut’s adventurous spirit extended beyond his professional and personal life—he was an avid athlete who found joy and challenge in physical endurance by competing in many triathlons over the years, including an Ironman. In 2023, at the age of 64, he achieved the remarkable feat of completing the Norseman Xtreme Triathlon in Norway, one of the world’s most challenging triathlons. This accomplishment stood as a testament to his determination, discipline, and passion for pushing boundaries.

Knut was a proud father and family man, and enjoyed being out in nature on local trails and lakes, visiting his beach condo in Florida, and traveling the world. He is survived by his wife, Emme Baalerud of Marietta, GA, and his two children, Andrew Baalerud and his wife Abbey of Decatur, GA, and Kristina Baalerud and her husband Apollo Liu of Marietta, GA. He will also be deeply missed by their mother, Elizabeth Egan of Atlanta, GA, with whom he raised their two children during 25 years of marriage. Knut’s bond with his family in Norway remained strong; he is survived by his brother, Hans Baalerud, his wife Randi Slaatten, and their three children.

A true citizen of the world, Knut’s life was a testament to resilience, hard work, and love for those closest to him. His adventurous spirit, love of life, and unwavering dedication to his community of friends and colleagues will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/knut-baalerud/obituary/

Copy