Russell W. Knechtel

Age 87, of Grand Ledge, MI, passed away Wednesday, March 5, 2014.  He was born July 24, 1926 in Alpena, MI to Richard and Emma Knechtel. Russell loved to do many things; he loved sports, RVing, boating but what he loved the most was spending time with his friends and family. Nothing was more important to Russell than spending time with family and having get togethers. Russell was a veteran of World War II and a graduate of MSU. He was owner and operator of Music Systems Corp. for over 35 years along with his wife and family. Russell also loved his hometown of Alpena and was a lifelong member of the Elks.

 Russell is survived by his children: Vickie L. (Robert) Barnett, Kathleen (Stuart) Thorburn, Penny (Tom) Kaiser, and Daniel Knechtel. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren: Kevin Gustufson, Steven Thorburn, Jennifer Gustafson, Jay Thorburn, Danny Kaiser, Kaurynn Knechtel, Kendall Knechtel; and 2 great-grandchildren: Jordyn Hanks, and Dylan Hanks. Russell was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Alice “Jane” Knechtel in December and four older brothers, Harold, Harvey, Victor and Ralph Knechtel.

Visitation for friends and family will be ­­­from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., Saturday, March 8, 2014 at the Estes-Leadley Holt/Delhi Chapel. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. A short celebration of his life with a light dinner will follow at St. Matthew Lutheran Church. Memorial contributions in memory of Russell may be made to Hospice Advantage.

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4 Messages to “Russell W. Knechtel

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Sandy Haynes
March 6, 2014 at 5:00 pm

Kathy and Family,
Sorry to hear about the loss of your father. The loving memories of your mom and dad will help heal your heart. Wish I could be there to give you a hug.
Sandy

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Dan Knechtel
March 6, 2014 at 7:58 pm

My dad was a great man who was loved by all. He was married to my mom for over 62 years. The last few years he did nothing but assist my mom in her battle with Parkinson’s. And when she lost her fight 9 weeks ago, he lost his will to live. Hie died of a lonely heart, even though the doctor called it Congestive heart failure. My dad got his wish Wednesday and got to join his wife and his brothers.

Your kids will miss you immensely dad, but we understand your desire to join your loved ones and friends. You will never be forgotten Dad.

Your son,

Dan

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Karen Firos
March 7, 2014 at 5:20 pm

So sorry . It is never easy losing a parent and grandparent. It is even extra hard when you loose both your mother and now your father in such a close amount of time. May your special memories of them help to bring you comfort. They will always be with you.

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Agbeko & DeBrenna
March 8, 2014 at 10:03 am

Dan & Family,
To the shorn lamb, God tempers the wind. He, the Omnipotent, will surely take care of you and the rest of the family. May you also find solace in the fact that your parents are peacefully residing in the bosom of our creator.
Our heartfelt condolence.
Agbeko, DeBrenna and Gabrielle

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