David was born in Tyler, Texas on 17 August, 1950. He was married to Janet Ellen Dudley on 2 May, 1972 in the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He had five children, four boys and one girl, Micheal, Christy, James, Jonathan and Stephen.
He graduated from Chapel Hill High School, Chapel Hill (now New Chapel Hill), Texas in 1968. Additionally, he earned his Eagle Scout award. Soon after high school he served approximately three years in the United States Army from 1968-1971 as a 95C, Military Police Correction Officer, stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado. He was honorably discharged from service as a Sergeant. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal (1st Award), and the National Defense Service Medal. Upon completion of his military he attended and graduated from Brigham Young University, Magna Cun Luade with an undergrad degree in Outdoor Education. He then completed a Master Degree in Fish and Wildlife Management from Texas A&M University, and earned his Doctoral degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. Throughout his professional career he worked for Texas A&M University, Safari Club International, the Boy Scouts of America, Assistant Dean of Forestry at Stephen F. Austin State University, Director of Calwood Outdoor Education Facility, Vice President of the International Hunter Education Association, Missouri Department of Conservation, and retired as Dean and Director of the Daniel Boone Home, Lindenwood University.
David loved to spend time with his collie dogs, he was always active in the outdoors and really enjoyed hunting and fishing. He also was an avid reader with a special appreciation for history and poems. Writing came natural to him, David was author of many articles in several outdoor industry magazines. He also diligently wrote letters to his children while away serving missions for the church or military assignments. David made friends easily and influenced the lives of many people. He could start a conversation with anyone and walk away with a friend. Connection with family and friends were important to him. David spent much of his career in a teaching capacity and had a real passion for it. He loved his students and sheltered many an international student who needed a place to go on a holiday or weekend. He was always good for a story even if it was your fifth time hearing it you could always count on a good laugh.
He is survived by: Sergeant First Class David M. Knotts, Jr., United States Army; Christy Nevels; James Knotts, HM1 Jonathan Knotts, United States Navy; Captain Stephen Knotts, United States Army Infantry; and 29 grandchildren.
A visitation will be held on Friday, May 20th at 1 PM with a memorial service at 2 PM. Both will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on 1400 Lynnwood Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80521. A reception will follow the service from 4 PM - 7 PM at a private residence. Please ask a family member for the address.
If you would like to attend the service virtually, broadcasting accommodations have been made:
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Expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.allnuttftcollins.com for the Knotts family.
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