October 1, 1932 – August 17, 2018
Gerald “Jerry” T. Knowles, 85, of Stevensville, passed away at Royalton Manor on Friday, August 17, 2018.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, August 24, 2018, at 11AM, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, with V. Rev. Robert Creagan officiating. Friends may visit with the family on Friday, August 24, 2018, from 9:30AM until the time of service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Those wishing to leave a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Jerry was born on October 1, 1932, to Donald & Julia (Schadwald) Knowles in Deerfield, MI. He graduated from Monroe High School in Monroe, MI. Jerry was drafted into the Army in 1953 where he served during the Korean War. After his time in the service he started working for Michigan Gas Utilities. He worked his way up in the company to being a Western Division Operation’s Manager and retired from MGU after 35 years of service. On June 12, 1965, Jerry married the love of his life Imelda Landoski at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Carleton, MI. After Jerry’s retirement, he and Imelda would spend their winters together in Florida.
Jerry was a lifetime member of the Stevensville American Legion. He was also a member of the Moose and Elks Club. Jerry was a volunteer fireman on the Frenchtown Township Volunteer Fire Department in Monroe, MI for 15 years. He enjoyed going to garage sales where he’d find treasure for his friends, playing cards and making wine. Jerry also liked to sit by his pond and feed the fish with his grandson. Jerry was a kind, loving and caring person. He was a great listener and always willing to give his advice to his friends. He was always helping others. Most importantly, Jerry loved to spend his time with his family, especially his grandson.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 53 years, Imelda Knowles of Stevensville; children, Jerry (Monica) Knowles of Stevensville and Jill Knowles of Lake Forest, IL; grandson Jared Knowles of Stevensville; siblings, Marjorie Case of Ohio, Marilyn Heller of Florida and Mary Ellen Liedel of Michigan.
Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Donald & Julia Knowles and brother Alan Knowles.