Harold Knecht

Harold E. Knecht, 84, of Mansfield, went to his Heavenly Home Wednesday, April 22, 2009, at MedCentral Mansfield. Born May 31, 1924, in Creston, Ohio, he was the son of Clyde and Verda Repp Knecht. He was a veteran of the United States Army serving during World War II with the Meryles Maranders in Burma receiving the Purple Heart as well as several other service medals. Harold retired from the United States Postal Service after 35 years of service. He was a member of the VFW Post 9943 where he was a past Post Commander and the American Legion post 16. He loved to golf, especially with his son, and he also enjoyed bowling, fishing, and was a fan of the Cleveland Indians and the Cleveland Browns. Harold was always helping others and loved his grandchildren. He also loved to pitch horseshoes with his family and friends.

Surviving are his wife of 64 years, Ellouise M. Finley Knecht; a daughter, Sheila Shaffer of Mansfield; a son, Gary Cheryle Knecht of Blaine, TN; four grandchildren, Rhonda Phillip Cathers of Mansfield, Ryan Stephanie Shaffer of Crestline, Jeremy Danielle Knecht of Bellville and Jennifer Cole of Blaine, TN; eight great grandchildren, Corey and Brooke Cathers of Mansfield, Erik and Brandon Shaffer of Crestline, Skyler and Trey Knecht of Bellville and Kayla and Jason Hoffer of TN; one great great granddaughter, Emma Cathers of Mansfield; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; and two sisters.

Friends may call from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, April 26, 2009, at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond Street, Mansfield, Ohio 44902. Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 27, 2009, at the funeral home, conducted by Rev. Dr. Dale V. Adkins. Burial will follow in Mansfield Cemetery where full military services will be conducted by the Richland County Veterans Burial Detail. Memorial contributions may be made to D.A.V.