James Robert McKnight

     COL (R) James R. McKnight was born in Freemansberg, Pennsylvania.  He went to Lehigh University and studied Engineering.  He entered the Army as an Officer, traveling to France, and once back in The States, to Illinois to earn his Master’s Degree at The University of Illinois where he met his future wife, Sylvia.  They married in 1959, and spent 64 loving years, traveling with their three daughters, April, Mary, and Laura both Stateside and overseas.

     James loved woodworking, reading, learning, hiking, birdwatching and in his later years, cooking.  He held high standards for himself and passed along to his children, his belief in honor, truth, being on time, a strong work ethic, and a hearty laugh.  He was proud of all his nieces and nephews and took joy in his 12 grandchildren.  

     Services will be held privately with the family.