John William Knaffla

John William Knaffla, age 77 of Warren, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday, July 24, 2014. He was born on July 29, 1936 in Detroit, son of the late John and the late Loretta (nee: Curtis) Knaffla.John was born and raised in Detroit, and is where he received his education. It wasn't long after graduating from high school that he took that fateful dive into the pool of matrimony by joining his sweetheart in marriage and beginning their life together, a journey that spanned over 58 years.John was employed in the manufacturing field and worked for the Ring Screw Works company in Madison Heights. He ultimately attained the position of Quality Control Manager, the culmination of a career he enjoyed with them until his retirement after 39 years of dedicated and loyal service.When he wasn't working, John loved to exercise his skills as a Ham Radio Operator and enjoyed spending time on the airwaves talking to fellow radio friends,…and at times, new friends as well. Another notable mention would have to be John's proud association with the Mason's and its fraternal brotherhood, of which he was a lifetime member and past Master. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Troy and truly enjoyed the many years of friendships built, lives touched, and the charitable offerings that the Mason's generously extend. John played a large role in forwarding its good name and espousing its good works.Yet without a doubt, John's favorite pastime went unmatched when it came to exchanging the concrete jungle for a bit of Michigan's splendor up north. Visiting the family cottage in the upper peninsula's Crooked Lake meant foregoing many of the creature comforts for the comfort and serenity of Michigan's natural beauty and the wonder of the outdoors. It was an entirely different pace…in an entirely different place…and John just couldn't get enough of it. It where all of life's cares were cast aside for the simple pleasures of getting back to nature,…and where he and his family created some of their most precious memories together.And "family" was the core of it all for John. A loving husband, father and grandfather, he poured the best part of his heart & soul into his loved ones and cared for them without measure. He leaves a legacy of love that will forever be treasured and reflected upon fondly with each remembrance shared. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally. John was the beloved husband of Wanda (nee: Sousa) for over 58 years. Dear father of John, Tim (Julie), Alan, and Kevin (Janet) Knaffla. He was the loving grandfather of John, Tim, Scott, Blake, Sarah, Laura, Lily, and Amy.Visitation for John will be held on Sunday, July 27th from 3-9pm, with a Masonic Service at 7pm, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren. Mr. Knaffla will lie in state 10:30am Monday July 28, 2014 at St. Malachy Catholic Church, 14115 E 14 Mile Road in Sterling Heights, until the time of the Funeral Liturgy 11am. Celebrating the Funeral will be Rev. Fr. Joseph Gembala, interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan.Please share memories of John at his memory book.