William G. Knecht

To watch Bill's funeral service please click here.  

William G. Knecht, 89, of Williamsport passed away surrounded by family Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at home. He was reunited with his loving wife of 63 years, Marie E. (Krakowski) Knecht, who passed on May 14, 2020.

Born December 1, 1933 in Williamsport, he was a son of the late Edward D. "Dewey" and Ruth M. (Bubb) Knecht.

Bill was a 1951 graduate of Williamsport High School and proudly served his country during the Korean War. As a veteran he continued to honor his country as a member of the Korean War Veterans of Lycoming County.

Bill graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a mechanical engineering degree. He worked for over 42 years at Darling Valve, now Flowserve, enjoying 20 years of travel through work. He was a member of ASME: American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He was active in scouts, where he enjoyed leading and working with kids.

Avid Penn State fans, Bill and Marie created countless memories in Happy Valley as they cheered on the Nittany Lions and shared tailgates with family and friends.  

An enthusiastic bird watcher, Bill found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He spent countless hours puttering in his yard, meticulously tending to it, creating a haven for the birds he cherished so much.    

Bill was known for his structured lifestyle which reflected his disciplined nature. His commitment to routine was a testament to his dedication and reliability. He was a steadfast friend, always there with a helping hand, warm smile or one liner when you needed it most.

Surviving are three children, Edward Knecht (Irene), of Tucson, AZ., Vicki Synoracki (Bernie), of Williamsport, and John Knecht (Kim), of Chandler, AZ; six grandchildren, Perfilia Vigil (Danny), Veronica Knecht, Brent Synoracki (Dina), Logan Synoracki (Shannon), Trisha Hribar (Stephen), and Jenny Fredo (Evan); 13 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and several extended family members and friends.

In addition to his parents and wife he was preceded in death by his daughters, Mary Ann Knecht and Anne B. Starner, a son-in-law, Tony R. Starner Jr.; a grandson, Michael A. Starner; and siblings, Edward Dewey Jr. and Monroe Knecht.

A funeral service to honor the life of Bill will be held 2 pm, Monday, November 20 at Sanders Mortuary, 821 Diamond Street, Williamsport. Burial will follow in Wildwood Cemetery with military honors accorded by the Korean War Veterans of Lycoming County.  A viewing will be held from 1 pm until the time of service on Monday at Sanders.  

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations in Bill’s name be made to the Penn College Foundation c/o William G. and Marie E. Knecht Scholarship, One College Avenue, Williamsport, PA 17701, the Susquehanna Health Foundation c/o Home Care & Hospice 1001 Grampian Blvd., Williamsport, PA 17701 or the Korean War Veterans of Lycoming County, PO Box 3232 Williamsport, PA 17701.

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