Daniel Francis Knoblock

Dan was one of fourteen children born to Edwin and Gertrude Knoblock, in Port Austin, Michigan. Dan shared the “tenth and eleventh born” positions with his twin brother Donald J. Knoblock. The twins were born at home, on the now historic farm on Hunter Road in Port Austin.

Dan is preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Gertrude (Sosnoski) Knoblock, his sisters Florence Yaroch, Lillian Dolan, and Lorraine Kelterborn, and brothers Edwin Knoblock and Eldon Knoblock. He was also preceded by his brothers-in-law Larry Yaroch, Ed Dolan, Dave Kelterborn, Gene Clancy, and Irv Petit.

He is survived by his sisters Venice Clancy, Irene Petit, Betty Jane Hertel, Karen (Jack) Gilbreath, and Linda (Paul) Burger. He is also survived by his brothers Kenneth (Bell) Knoblock, Donald (Marilou) Knoblock, and Gary (Beth) Knoblock. Dan is also survived by his son Ryan Knoblock, daughter-in-law Chelsea Knoblock (Levin), his grandchildren Lenora and Calvin, his longtime partner Vicki Hoetger, 35 nieces and nephews, and 57 great nieces and nephews.

Dan spent the first eighteen years of his life on the family farm in Port Austin. There he learned about farming, livestock, horses, and entrepreneurism. The family raised all their meat and produce, and operated the Knoblock Riding Stable, which is still in operation today. Dan's early introduction to horses turned into a lifetime hobby and passion. He was considered by many to be a great horseman and enjoyed raising, training, and riding horses throughout his life.

Following his high school graduation Dan attended Central Michigan University. He then served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968 during the Vietnam War. He was stationed in Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam for 18 months where he specialized in marine hull repair.

Following his discharge from military service, Dan was hired by U.S. Steel where he was introduced to the art of building fences. He worked in that industry until he formed his own company, Dan Knoblock Fencing, which he ran from 1988 – to 2021.

Dan had many interests, with horses topping the list. He loved horse shows, sales, trail rides, and just being with the horses in his barn that were truly pets. He also enjoyed sharing his knowledge of horses with the young people who came into his circle, especially his grandchildren, and his neighbor Rileigh Landis.

Dan loved his neighbors and his large extended family. He was always present for family celebrations and holidays and was central to the hilarity of those events. He truly and deeply loved his siblings, his nieces and nephews, and their children, and was honored to be a part of their lives. He cherished card games, coffee, and long conversations with them and was constantly curious about what they had happening in their lives.

His special brand of love was especially apparent for his grandchildren, who loved to visit his home for horse and tractor rides, chores, bonfires, and "treats”. He was present at any event they had, and his treat deliveries and impromptu dance lessons were a staple after each.

Dan's big personality, enthusiasm and immense sense of humor will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved him.

A committal service will be held Friday, December 15th at 9:30 am at the Great Lakes National Cemetery, located at 4200 Belford Rd, Holly, MI 48442.

All are welcome to join the family for a celebration of life luncheon held at 2Gather Elegant Event Venue immediately following the service. There will be plenty of food, drinks, and sharing of stories to celebrate Dan and the impact he had on us all. Venue is located at 3391 Cross Creek Pkwy, Auburn Hills, MI 48326.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Love For A Child in support of the work they do for foster kids in Michigan.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pixleyfh.com for the Knoblock family.