Gilbert LeRoy Knigge

Born in 1925 in White Lake South Dakota to Amanda & Adolf Knigge. He spent his childhood years working on a farm. Gilbert attended Patten High School, graduating in 1943 as the only, and last one to graduate. At age 18, he left home to serve in the Air Force during the Korean War. Gilbert belonged to the Ione Veterans of War Affairs.

Gilbert move to California for warmer weather, where he met and married his wife, Norma Jean, in 1957. Together they raised two children, Susan and Victor. He spent his career in various fields of Forestry. Even in retirement, he continued his forestry work for the local lumber mill. He enjoyed his family, fishing, playing handyman and cards, and his career. He loved sharing stories including of his war days, his childhood, and his Forestry career. He loved his family and enjoyed helping to raise three grandchildren in his retirement.

Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Melva and brother, Jim, both of South Dakota. Gilbert is survived by his wife, Norma Jean Knigge,; daughter, Susan Knigge-Horner (Forrest Horner);Victor Knigge (Ileshia Knigge); four grandchildren, Stephanie, Alex and Matthew Knigge and Gregory Horner (Melinda Horner), two great grandchildren, Madalynn and Addison Horner; his sister Connie Knigge & sister-in-law, Pat Knigge.

A celebration of life will be held Nov 11, 2011 at 10: 00 at Reichert’s Funeral Chapel. Memorial contributions, instead of flowers, may be made to Hospice of Amador, PO Box 595, Jackson CA 95642.