Marie E. (Krakowski) Knecht

 Marie E. Knecht, 84, of Williamsport fought a courageous battle with cancer before passing away surrounded by family Thursday, May 14, 2020 at her home. Surviving is her loving husband of 63 years, William “Bill” Knecht. 

     Born January 20, 1936 in Williamsport, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Victoria (Batkowski) Krakowski. 

     Marie was a 1953 graduate of Williamsport High School. She was an Assistant Vice President at Merrill Lynch for 19 years. Marie participated actively in the community through volunteer efforts of the American Cancer Society, president of the Divine Providence Hospital auxiliary and also past president of the Duboistown Garden Club. She was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Parish. 

      Through the years, she and her husband traveled extensively in Europe creating memories, but her most admired trips were to Happy Valley cheering on Penn State and tailgating with family and friends. Marie’s sassy, sophisticated and strong willed personality made her fun to be around, especially as a Grammy to her grandchildren whom she adored.    

     Surviving in addition to her husband are her children, Edward Knecht (Irene), of Tuscan, AZ. Vicki Synoracki (Bernie), of Williamsport, and John Knecht (Kim), of Chandler, AZ; six grandchildren, Perfilia Vigil, Veronica Knecht, Brent Synoracki, Logan Synoracki, Trisha Hribar, and Jenny Fredo; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchildren.

     In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her daughters, Mary Ann Knecht and Anne B. Starner, a son-in-law, Anthony R. Starner, Jr. and a grandson, Michael A. Starner.

     In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations in Marie’s name be made to the American Cancer Society, 1948 E. Third Street, Williamsport PA 17701 or Penn College Foundation c/o William G. and Marie E. Knecht Scholarship, One College Avenue, Williamsport PA 17701 contributing towards the scholarships that Bill and Marie have created. 

     A public graveside service to honor the life of Marie will be held 11:30 AM Monday, May 18 at Wildwood Cemetery. (Please meet at Wildwood Cemetery Office).

     Online condolences may be made at www.SandersMortuary.com, where the graveside will be posted for viewing following Monday’s service. 

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