William H Knowles

William H. Knowles

Age 70, of Massillon and more recently of Cortland succumbed to cancer. His year long battle came to an end the morning of Tuesday, January 30, 2018 in his Cortland home. Bill was born in Canton on April 7, 1947 to Ila (Scott) Knowles and Clarence William Knowles. He bravely served the United States Army in the “Hell on Wheels” tank division during the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1969. He was the recipient of three battle-time Purple Hearts. Once returning from war, he was employed at Stark Ceramics before beginning a 38-year journey at the Timken Company, retiring in 2010. Growing up in Canton, he fell in love with all things Cleveland Sports, especially the Cleveland Indians. He also had a great fondness for the Ohio State University football team. He spent his time enjoying the outdoors; specifically hunting, fishing, bird watching, and gardening. He also had an intense passion for mowing on the riding lawn mower. Bill also loved to travel the world with his cherished companion, Karen. They visited Spain, Australia, Costa Rica, Hawaii, and enjoyed several Caribbean cruises. He delighted in his time with his grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends, cats, and his precious Miniature Schnauzer, Chewy. This great man will be missed by his brother, Dave (Marijo) Knowles; his life-companion, Karen Johnson; nephew, Michael Mong; niece Kelly (Larry) James and their children, Jessica Mong and Ryan James; step-son, Joe (Kristy) Johnson; grandchildren, Zane and Ethan Johnson. William was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Carole Stough; his beloved children, Billy and Abby Knowles and their mother, Charlotte. Funeral services will be Friday, Feb 2, 2018 at 1:30 pm in the Sanders Funeral Home in East Canton. Interment in Mapleton Cemetery. Friends may call one hour prior to the service from 12:30 – 1:30 pm.

Sanders Funeral Home

330-488-0222

www.sandersfuneralhomes.com