Joseph Knowlton

Joseph Knowlton, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2023. Born in Plymouth, Indiana on January 10, 1947, to Joseph Dean and Dorothy (Lisiecki) Knowlton, Joseph lived a faith-filled life, always lending a thoughtful hand to those in need. Throughout his life, he touched the lives of many with his handy skills and caring nature.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife, Susan (Brown) Knowlton; his children: Tammie (John) Duncan of Hobart, Indiana; Tracy Knowlton of Port Charlotte, Florida, Kristie Surma of Naples, Maine, Karen (Ethan) Reppert of Port Charlotte, Florida, Joseph (Nicole) Knowlton, Jr. of Rolling Prairie, Indiana; 20 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He is also survived by his step-children, Brenda (Keith) Schnik of Mishawaka, Indiana, and Steve Newland of Walkerton, Indiana; his siblings, Don (Ruth) Knowlton, Arlene Heim, and Lloyd (Joyce) Knowlton; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. Joseph was preceded in death by his first wife, Carol (Spence) Knowlton, brothers, Ronald and Richard Knowlton; and sister, Shirley McDonald.

A proud graduate of Walkerton High School, Joseph went on to serve his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he began a dedicated career as a Lineman for the city of Proctor, Minnesota. Later, he worked as an Electrician and Town Foreman for the city of New Carlisle, Indiana. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Joseph was an active member of the American Legion Post 297 in New Carlisle, Indiana, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

As we remember Joseph Knowlton, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by service, devotion, and love for his family, friends, and community. His impact on the lives of those around him will not be forgotten, and his legacy will live on through the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the memories he leaves behind.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, April 20, 2023, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana. A Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m. 

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, April 21, 2023, at the Rolling Prairie United Methodist Church, 3444 US-20, Rolling Prairie, Indiana, where family and friends may visit one hour prior to the service. Pastor JoEllyn Chadwick will officiate. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Walkerton, Indiana.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Joseph’s life or leave a message of comfort for his family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

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