Dehny Knowles

If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Dehny R. Knowles. He was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to him because he was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around him had whatever they needed. Dehny was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what he meant.

The son of Mary and Dennis Knowles, Dehny was raised in Kansas City, Missouri and Independence, Missouri. During his childhood he learned to think for himself and find beauty in the world. Dehny tried his best to be an obedient child, but being the free thinker that he was some of his innocent thoughts didn’t always garner favor with others. For instance, correcting his families’ church on the lyrics and meaning to Pat Benatar’s “Hell Is for Children”. Though his childhood was difficult, he learned to easily identify with, show empathy to and perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Dehny's personality throughout his life.

Dehny spent a lot of time in his early years alone. Quietly reflecting, reading and listening to music. It wasn’t until later that Dehny wrote both music and song lyrics of his own. Dehny was raised with two younger sisters, Kellee and Melodee. Dehny watched out for his younger sisters fiercely, and they cared deeply for one another.

As someone who learned and taught from his experiences, Dehny would always go into new experiences, projects, problems or situations with an open mind and the knowledge garnered from previous life lessons. Although he had an exacting nature, Dehny always remained tactful. After a breath or two of fresh air, shower and a cup of coffee, Dehny was ready to take on the day and just about anything that would or could possibly come his way. As a young boy, Dehny was a child with a number of interests, such as writing song lyrics, reading and music (deejaying and composing).

For Dehny, the school routines were never a problem although he generally preferred variety to structure. He seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And he was able to do it quickly and efficiently. Dehny was also adept at details. Dehny was very observant and was generally quick at picking up new things. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. His favorite class in high school was English.

There was one thing that all of Dehny's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that he was a talker. He could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Dehny was such a popular person throughout his life. But Dehny was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. Dehny was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While he maintained personal standards and his own personal values, Dehny was very accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, Dehny was often the person who would organize events. In fact, Dehny was fairly comfortable playing the role of “host” for just about any occasion. When Dehny made friends, he made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of his best friends were Jodi Hillhouse, Lori Luna, Claudia Paige, Tanya Streety and Carolyn Chaperon.

Later in life, he became friends with Mikey Garcia, Kasper Walschlager, Kristin Mittanck, Sherry Calderon and Valerie Everett. After moving to Austin, Dehny found his soul mate. Mikey Garcia meant the world to Dehny, and Dehny meant the world to him. His last moments were spent thinking of Mikey, who was sitting by his side as he passed peacefully. As Dehny would always tell his family of friends,” Mikey is my greatest joy and source of happiness in my life.”

Taking his work seriously came naturally to Dehny, and he expected the same from those around him. Dehny was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. He was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in his good communication skills. Dehny was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations in which Dehny thrived. He could understand the details without getting lost in the broad “big picture.” His primary occupation was Administration. He was employed for 12 years at Admiral Linen. He brought harmony to his work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for his colleagues.

A methodical man, Dehny enjoyed spending time working on his various hobbies. He had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that he could have something to show for his efforts. His favorite pursuits were making and playing music and also reading.

Dehny didn’t have many chances to get out of Austin for leisure, but when he did his favorite destination was Schliterbahn. He enjoyed riding in the wave pool at the Master Blaster Park with his family of friends.

Dehny was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was Pharaoh - a cat, who was a best friend for 6 years. His family was rounded out by his tabby cats, Bodhi and Domi.

After fighting a battle against cancer, Dehny passed away on Monday, September 9, 2013 at Christopher House in Austin, Texas. Even through this trying time in his life, his thoughts were still with helping others. Thanks to his contribution to science and his generous heart, his cancer is growing and has the future potential to help find a cure.

Dehny was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever he said something, he meant it. Dehny was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. He was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. He was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember him for most is the fact that he was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life he touched will miss Dehny R. Knowles.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held in honor of Dehny at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, October 20, 2013 at the Shady Hollow Community Center, 3303 Doe Run in Austin, Texas.