George T. McKnight

George Taylor McKnight, formerly of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, May 12, 2011, in Surprise, Arizona. He was born January 23, 1937, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Velma Gore and George Perrill McKnight. George graduated from Southwest High School, Kansas City, Missouri, in 1955 and received his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, in 1959, where he was an active member of Phi Kappa Si Fraternity. George's education and gift to gab led to a very successful career in sales and dedicated friend to all. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He and his beloved wife, Linda shared a special love and were true sole-mates. They moved to Surprise, Arizona, in 2001. They enjoyed traveling and spending time with friends and family. George was an avid golfer and took great joy in his 'hole in one.' While his sons were growing up, he was actively involved in coaching community activities with Little League football, baseball, and basketball. His passion for sports included a 47-year season ticket holder for the Kansas City Chiefs and attended many games for the Kansas City Royals. George took great pride in attending his grandchildren's school and sport events, where they always knew of his presence by his infamous whistle call.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. George is survived by his wife Linda, and his children George Scott McKnight (Wrenda), Nixa, Missouri; Jana Lynn Loge (Mark), Nixa, Missouri; David Thomas McKnight (LeAnne), Lee's Summit, Missouri; and Amber Louise Duarte (Chuck), Blue Springs, Missouri; 14 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and his beloved Bichon "white girls," DeDe and Jinny.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2011, at 3:00 p.m. at McGilley's State Line Chapel 12301 State Line Road, Kansas City, MO 64145. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of the Valley 14066 W. Waddell Rd. Surprise, Arizona 85379. The family wishes to thank Hospice of the Valley and Mr. Ron Stolfus.