Percy Kniss

Another of Tom Brokaw’s “Greatest Generation” passed from his earthly home. Percy Daryl Kniss (aka: Daryl, Pops, Dad, P.D., Gramps, Great Gramps) was born in Kalkaska Michigan on August 7, 1924. The 5th of 6 children. His passing occurred August 26th, 2023 with his loving family at his bedside.

“Daryl” married the love of his life Maxine L. Kroupa on September 13th,1943, shortly after leaving to join Patton’s 3rd Armored Division and the Battle of the Bulge and other action through the end of WWII. Upon his return he joined his father-in-law in raising cherries and apples on the Old Mission Peninsula until his retirement.

When not farming or driving a school bus, Daryl enjoyed hunting, fishing and trips with his wife across the U.P., Canada, Hawaii and winter trips to Clearwater, Florida. He was often teased that he never met a stranger. He enjoyed new places, people and experiences.

After the passing of Maxine, Percy married Beulah Estes Kniss and in the Winter moved to Texas. She introduced him to cruises and cowboys. With Beulah’s passing he returned to his peninsula home where he lived out his summers and son’s Florida home in the winter.

Percy was preceded in death by his two wives; parents, George and Eva; brothers, Gorden, Boyd, Wayne, and Dale and sister, Donna.

He is survived by daughter, Bonnie (John); son, Alfred (Roseann); grandchildren, Tammy (Steve), Tina (Rick) and Jason (Michelle); great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. His warmth and humor will truly be missed by those who knew him and spent time with him.

The family would like to thank Rob’s House, Kalkaska and Hospice of Michigan for their excellent, compassionate care during his final weeks.

Funeral Services will be held 1pm, Saturday, September 2, 2023, at the Old Mission Peninsula United Methodist Church. Visitation with the family will start at noon. A burial with Military Honors will follow at the Ogdensburg Cemetery.

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