James B Knackstedt

Born August 7, 1942, in Galion, Ohio, James proudly served the City of Mansfield as a firefighter from 1966 to 1992, until his retirement.

He loved garage sales and flea markets and spent many years running a booth at the Mid Ohio Antique Mall. James was a devoted sports enthusiast who played softball for many years at Cyclops Ball Fields and qualified to play in the Senior Olympics in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at age 65. He was also active in bowling and pool leagues and enjoyed teaching others how to improve their game.

A dedicated family man, James rarely missed a grandchild’s baseball or soccer game. He loved dining at Mansfield Restaurant and delighted in handing out Matchbox cars to children there, simply to bring smiles to their faces.

James was known for his sense of humor and his stubborn, sassy personality—traits he carried with him even through his time at the nursing home.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rhonda Jean Knackstedt; parents, Wilbur and Marjorie Knackstedt; brother, William Knackstedt, and sister-in-law, Barbara Knackstedt; and sister, Helen, and brother-in-law, Doug Sackman.

He is survived by his brother, Richard (Linda Ann) Knackstedt of Troy, Ohio; and sister, Linda Joyce Knackstedt of Ontario, Ohio.

Surviving children include Tiffany Knackstedt-Dilley (Paul), Cindy Hines (Robert), Jeffrey Knackstedt, and John Knackstedt.

He is also survived by grandchildren: Steven Dilley (Danielle), Alexis Dilley-Wolford (Nathan), Logan Dilley, Luke Dilley, Tracy Gorman (Clint), Karli Knackstedt, Jeff Knackstedt (Ashley), Dalin Knackstedt, Ashley Russell, Michael Shea, and Brandon Shea.

And his great-grandchildren: Aria Edwards, Hayden and Olivia Wolford, Lennox Dilley, Allidia and Briac Knackstedt, Elisabeth Thompson, Charlotte Shea, Leah Patterson, and Wesley Patterson.

Friends and family will gather for visitation Thursday, June 5th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 South Diamond Street, Mansfield, Ohio. A Celebration of Life will follow with Pastor Rich Hurles officiating.

Donations may be left at the funeral home in care of the family.

Wappner Funeral Directors-Mansfield is honored to serve the Knackstedt family.