Class Notes

Robert (Bob) H. Kidd, (86), of Alcoa, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2023, surrounded by his wife and daughter.

Robert, fondly known as Hoppy, was born to Clyde and Margaret Kidd, on December 3, 1937, in Maryville, Tennessee. He graduated from Maryville High School and attended Maryville College. He was the owner of Bob Kidd Siding Company and developed many subdivisions in the area. Bob enjoyed giving back to his community and leading a life of service. He served on the Blount County Commission for 16 years. He served on the Budget and Finance Committee. He also served on the 911 board for over 30 years. He was also an avid sports memorabilia collector and New York Yankees fan.

Bob was preceded by his parents, Clyde and Margaret Kidd; his sister, Peggy Lambert and brother-in-law, John Lambert. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dottie (Heaton) and one daughter, Robin Spears and her husband, Bo Spears; his grandchildren, Carl and Mac; 2 nephews, John Lambert Jr. and Jason Lambert (April); 3 great nieces, Sophia, Hollyn, and Helen; and two great nephews, Lucas and Charlie.

Dr. J. Edward Kidder, Jr. (Ted) passed away November 30, 2014 after a brief illness. Dr. Kidder was born in Chikungshan (Jigongshan), China while his parents were serving on a mission from 1921-1926. He met Cordelia Dellinger at Maryville College in Tennessee, and they were married in 1944 while he was on leave from the Army. He served in Patton’s 3rd Army in WWII from 1943 through 1945. Following the war, he continued his education at New York University where he received his PhD. He took an appointment at Washington University in St. Louis, MO and was introduced to the International Christian University (ICU) in Mitaka, Japan while a Fulbright Scholar at Kyoto University. He was Professor Emeritus and served on the faculty of ICU from 1956 until retirement in 1993, specializing in Japanese archaeology and art history. He is widely recognized in the field and authored over 10 books and numerous publications. Many works have been used as references for Japanese and Asian art studies including Japan Before Buddhism, Early Japanese Art, Prehistoric Japanese Art, and Ancient Japan. From 1957 until retirement, he directed many archeological excavations throughout Japan. His work preserving Japanese pre-historic sites earned him the “Imperial Order of the Sacred Treasure” for his contribution to Japanese culture from the emperor of Japan in 1992. He also served in many administrative positions while at ICU including Director of The ICU Archaeology Research Center, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dean Of The College Of Liberal Arts. After retirement, he and Cordelia moved to Crossnore, NC where they were active in the community through “Meals on Wheels” and the Crossnore Presbyterian Church. He is survived by his brothers Paul and David Kidder and his 4 sons – David, Jonathan, Paul, Jim and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

David H. Kidder born March 31, 1921, passed away February 18, 2018.

Johnnye Kiel December 4, 1923 – August 25, 2020 Richland, Washington – Johnnye Ruth Gudel was born on December 4, 1923, in Hixson, Tennessee, to John Gudel and Gladys Novella (Brown) Gudel. She was one of six children, four girls and two boys. She passed away on August 25, 2020, in Richland, Washington. She was 96 years old. Johnnye grew up in rural Hixson, Tennessee, near Chattanooga. The family did not have much money but were rich in many other ways. Johnnye loved playing basketball and softball and graduated from high school when she was 16. She attended Maryville College near Knoxville, Tennessee, and graduated in 1944 with a BA in Biology and a minor in English. With the country at war, she moved to Oak Ridge and began work at the Manhattan Project’s Y-12 facility for the Tennessee Eastman Corporation. She lived behind the fence and was an operator and later a supervisor at one of the secret calutron machines designed to separate isotopes of uranium. She also worked in a laboratory analyzing the enrichment level of the final product. While working at the calutron, she met George Robbins Kiel, one of the project engineers. They married on May 31, 1945, in Hixson, Tennessee, and honeymooned in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At the conclusion of the war, George and Johnnye decided to “see the West” and moved to Richland in February 1947. George took a job at Hanford with the General Electric Company working at the reprocessing plants in the 200 areas. A month after their arrival, Johnnye gave birth to a daughter, Ruth Ann Kiel, who died a week later. Two boys later filled her home with the birth of David in 1948 and William in 1952. When her boys were old enough, Johnnye began work as a substitute teacher for the Richland School District. She later took a full-time job as a seventh-grade homeroom teacher at Chief Joseph Junior High where she taught for many years. Teaching was one of the highlights of Johnnye’s life. Johnnye always loved to play sports and took up golf late in life. This became her new personal challenge that brought many new friends at Meadow Springs Country Club and provided an endless supply of golfing vacations. Johnnye is survived by her son Michael Christian (David) and his wife Debbie of Paradise, CA, and William Kiel of Richland. She was preceded in death by her husband George Robbins Kiel, daughter Ruth Ann, sisters Mary Elizabeth Pope, Dorothy Shannon, and Helen Gudel, and brothers Robert H. Gudel and William S. Gudel. Many families and friends had special places in her heart, especially the Lindgren, Mathis, Swift, and Figg families. Special thanks go to the staff at Guardian Angel Homes in Richland and the Chaplaincy Hospice Care. No public service will be held.

The Reverend Donald Rankin Killian, age 98, died on Saturday, August 25, 2012 at Medford Leas, Medford, NJ. His wife of 63 years, Ruth Haines Killian, a brother Nolan Killian and his sister Marion Armstrong preceded him in death. Many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews survive Rev. Killian. A memorial service was held at Medford Leas on Saturday, September 8, 2012. Memorial gifts may be made to Christ Presbyterian Church in Marlton, NJ or the Fund for Financial Assistance at Medford Leas, Medford, NJ.

Hermia was born on July 15, 1921 and passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2015. Hermia was a resident of Mclean, Virginia.

Carol Fraser Kincheloe passed away on November 5, 2023 at the Shannondale Retirement Community of Maryville, Rehabilitation Center.

She was born on February 5, 1932 in Cushing, Oklahoma to Beulah Randall Fraser and the Rev. Samuel Graham Fraser. She attended public schools in Cushing and Oklahoma City. Following graduation from Maryville College, she was employed by the Blount County Agricultural Extension Service working primarily with 4-H Club youth. Carol was an active member of the Presbyterian Church and many of its activities. Since 1983, she has been an active member of P.E.O.

In 1968, Carol married Samuel Kincheloe. His work gave them the opportunity to live in Illinois and Georgia as well as enjoy international travel. Retirement in 1998 returned them to Tennessee where they lived in Knoxville for several years.

In 2010, they became residents of the Shannondale Retirement Community of Maryville.

Carol was preceded in death by her sister, Charlotte F. Shipley in 2022. Survivors are her husband, Sam Kincheloe; son, John T. Trotter of Maryville, daughter, Jan (James) Voris of Atlanta. Grandsons: Chuck Trotter, Preston (Lynda) Trotter; two great granddaughters, Emma and Eva Trotter. She is also survived by her nephews; Douglas (Catherine) and Graham (Mary Lee) Shipley and their families. She is also survived by the Kincheloe family and many special friends. Carol always made sure to stay in touch with family and friends. She was a thoughtful, caring and gracious lady. She will be fondly remembered by those who were touched with her kindness and those who were fortunate to hear her stories.

Devida McGaha King went home to be with her Lord on Monday, May 29, 2017. She lived to the excellent age of 90. The daughter of a physician in Tennessee, Devida continued her father’s legacy of service throughout her life as a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a great-grandmother, an X-ray technician, a nurse, church pianist and church organist. At various times in her life she could be found traveling the country, working in her garden, bowling in leagues, practicing the piano or the organ at her church or at her home, watching every UK basketball game on TV, worshiping at church, and spending time with family. Devida was born in Newport, Tennessee on January 23, 1927. She graduated from Maryville College with a Bachelor of Science degree in May 1948. She went to work in Knoxville, TN as an X-ray technician. Soon after she met and fell in love with her husband, Philip Benton King, whom she married in Sevierville, TN in 1951. They moved to western Kentucky, where they built a home in Lone Oak. Devida and Philip worked together at the Union Carbide Nuclear Plant in Paducah, and Devida worked until just before her first son was born. She returned to work when her boys were older as an X-ray technician for an orthopaedic surgeon. In this position, she made a very strong impression on both her boys by telling stories of young people who had been crippled by motorcycle accidents. Having mastered the craft of X-ray, she returned to college to earn her Nursing degree at Paducah Community College. Soon after graduation, Devida took a position as a nurse at Lourdes Hospital, where she worked until retirement in 1991. Throughout this time, Devida served as a volunteer pianist and organist at her churches, Forest Hills Presbyterian and Highland Cumberland Presbyterian. She loved serving through her gift of music, and had the ability to remember even the third and fourth verses of many hymns. Devida was recognized as a Perpetual Member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church for her efforts in 1997. She later was a member of Lone Oak United Methodist Church. Devida recently moved to Georgia and found a renewed energy and excitement for life. She played in a Wii bowling league twice a week, played bingo, participated in Bible studies, found a church family at Mount Nebo United Methodist Church that she greatly enjoyed, and loved going out with family or hosting them at her new apartment. Devida is survived by a sister, Meriam Anderson of Knoxville, TN, son Jim King and wife Debbie of Marietta, GA, son Ed King and wife Rachael of Paducah, KY, grandson Adam King and wife Megan of Dallas, GA, grandson Eric King and wife Katie of Acworth, GA, granddaughter Rachel Shibley and husband Michael of Acworth, GA, grandson Stephen King and wife Julie of Madison, MS, and granddaughter Susan King of Paducah, KY. She is also survived by fourteen great-grandchildren – Addison, James, Isabelle, David, Philip, Joseph, Daniel, Luke, Mandy, Emma Jean, Isaac, Charlie, William, and Esther. She leaves a legacy of love. Love for the Lord and for her family and she will be greatly missed.

Jean Stewart King, age 75, of Port St Lucie, Florida passed away on Wednesday, December 22, 2021.

Jean was born October 22, 1946 and grew up in Pennsylvania.  She graduated with a BA from Maryville College.

She was a free spirit who loved taking pictures of everyone and everything.  Her favorite thing was to go to the beach and collect seashells.  She loved and cared for her many “fur babies”.

She is survived by her wife, Victoria Riccitiello, her brother, David King and his wife Patsy, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, a great-great niece and nephew.

She is predeceased by her parents, Alice and H. Stewart King.

She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her.

Mr. David George Kipp, of Red Boiling Springs, passed away Monday, February 18, 2019, at The Palace Care and Rehab in Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee.

Mr. David George Kipp is survived by; wife, Mary Wilson Kipp,son, Erik (Heather) Kipp,
daughters, Giselle (John) McMullen, Karen (Taylor) Neely, granddaughters, Amanda (Steven) Johnson, Rachael Marshall, grandson, Christopher Marshall, great-Grandchildren,
Benjamin Johnson and Olivia Johnson.

David Austin Kirkland, age 57, of Vonore, Fla., passed away Monday, November 25, 2019 in Hialeah, Fla. Member. He was Deacon & Treasurer of Vonore Baptist Church, where he was a strong supporter of the Church's Car Show. Survivors, daughter, Kathryn Kirkland, Son, Austin Kirkland, Father, Austin Kirkland, all of Vonore, Sister, Kelly Teague, Sister-in-law & brother-in-law, Janet & Chris Borden, Brother -in-law & sister-in-law, David & Lana Samples, all of Maryville. Niece, Tasha Cornine, Nephew, Ethan Teague, Preceded in death by wife, Rebecca Ann (Becky) Kirkland, mother, Beulah Dean Kirkland. Funeral 5 P.M. Sunday, December 1, Vonore Baptist Church, Rev. Andrew Osakue & Rev. Tony Collins officiating. Interment 11 A.M. Monday, Vonore Baptist Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Vonore Baptist Church Car Show fund. Family will receive friends 3-5 P.M. Sunday at Vonore Baptist Church. Arrangements by Biereley-Hale Funeral Home, Madisonville.

Mary Jane Kirklin, age 86, of Chicago, Illinois passed away on Tuesday, March 7, 2023.

Steven Kitchen Devoted family man, loved his log cabin, ‘one of the good guys’ Steve Kitchen was born in Asbury, NJ on October 9th to Pat & Don Kitchen. Sadly, Steve passed away on August 23rd. Always to be remembered as one of the “good guys”, he will be missed by so very many after a hard fought battle that ended too soon. Steve was our “Warrior Turtle” being a two-time cancer survivor. Steve graduated from Del Val High School, excelling in the wrestling program and continuing his skills to Maryville College, TN also earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management. Steve always spoke of his love of Tennessee and the friendships he began there and continue to this day, (you all know who you are). Steve looked forward to NCAA Wrestling and an avid TN Vols and Yankees fan. Semi-retired, he worked for Belzona/B.I.G.:Banks Industrial Group and always said they were family and the best company he ever worked for. After retirement – Steve, Barb and Boris, (their dog), enjoyed RVing and day trips on the WTH pontoon boat. Steve’s happiest times was moving to their log cabin, “Dancing Bears” in Narrowsburg and just “kicking back” with a cup of coffee or cold beer and taking in the pristine scenery. A Devoted Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Son, Brother, Uncle, Cousin & Friend, Steve leaves behind his caring father, Don and Step-Mom, Corky. Loving wife & Best Friend, Barbara. Children Eddie and wife Darlene, Amy and husband Dave and the “Prince” Justin with wife, Anna. Grandchildren Emily Rose, Madison, Ellie “Chatterbox” Paige, Makayla May and Tyler “the filthy animal” James. Two sisters who he loved dearly and he was always known amongst the three of them to refer to himself as “Mom’s Favorite”….Colleen Devita & husband, Mike. Kelly Haring & husband, Willis. So many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and COUNTLESS Friends! Lastly, Steve is survived by his “sidekick” Boris the thief, (aka “Funny Boy), who gave him endless joy and laughter! Boris is lost without him. Visitation will be held Saturday, August 28, 2021, from 10:00am to 1:30pm at the Harrison Rasmussen Funeral Home, 3412 SR97, Barryville, NY 12719. Burial will follow at St. Francis Cemetery, Narrowsburg, NY 12764. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to: Gary Sinise Foundation www.garysinisefoundation.org PO Box 368, Woodland Hills, CA 91365; St. Francis Xavier Church – Food Pantry 151 Bridge Street, Narrowsburg, NY 12764. Arrangements are under the care of the Harrison Rasmussen Funeral Home. 845-557-8010[ph1] Harrison Rasmussen Funeral Home 3412 SR 97 Barryville NY 12719 (845) 557-8010

Betty Lee Kitchen, 100, of New Castle, joined her Lord and Savior the afternoon of October 22, 2021, at Clen-Moore Place.
Born May 23, 1921, in Jarrell’s Valley, West Virginia, she was the daughter of Ruby Pearl (Price) and Guy Carlton Pettry.
She was preceded in death on March 2, 1976, by her beloved husband, Dr. Robert H. Kitchen, whom she married September 6, 1947.
Betty attended school in Charleston, W.Va, graduating from Charleston High School in 1938. She pursued her teaching degree at Maryville College where she graduated in 1942.
She was a teacher of languages: French, German and Spanish, in Woodstown, New Jersey, until her retirement.
A long-time member of the PEO Sisterhood, Chapter Y, she had also served in various local volunteer agencies such as the City Rescue Mission, Friends of the Hoyt and Friends of the Library.
Betty was an active member of First Presbyterian Church where she served with great love as a teacher, deacon, elder and church historian, as well as founding the Heritage Center.
She enjoyed playing Scrabble with her family, jigsaw puzzles, making ceramic and candy houses and spending time with her family.
She is survived by two sons: Dr. Robert H. (Mary) Kitchen of Fairfax Station, VA and Dr. John H. (Rosie) Kitchen of Rockville, MD, two daughters: Barbara L. Kitchen of State College, PA and Margaret K. (Merle D.) Brown of New Castle, nine grandchildren: Kelly and Douglas Burns, Jason Fish, Erin and Brian Jaskot, Brent Kitchen, Kristen Brown, Philip Brown, Jack Kitchen, Richard Kitchen and Rachel Kitchen, and three great-grandchildren: Ella, Cooper and Parker Jaskot.

Dr. Cynthia Blanchard Kittle, 75 (formerly Cynthia Colangelo), passed away on September 20, 2018, in Atlanta, Georgia, after suffering a stroke. Cynthia grew up in Dillsburg, Pennsylvania. She attended Maryville College in Tennessee and then received a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. After a 33-year career in child welfare, she earned a Ph.D. from Yeshiva University in New York and became a professor of Social Work at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. She is survived by her husband Tom; her sister Emily; her daughter Jennifer, son Brian, and daughter-in-law Kristin; and her grandchildren Ashton, Dylan, and Rene (Breann). Cynthia was a member of the Presbyterian Church and was an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous for 34 years.

Catherine P. Knaupp August 18, 1924- September 24, 2013 Columbus, GA- Catherine Payne Knaupp, 89, of Columbus, Georgia died Tuesday, September 24, 2013. Graveside Services will be held in Parkhill Cemetery Thursday, September 26, 2013 at 3:00 PM with Reverend Charles Hasty officiating. The family will visit with friends after the service at the cemetery. Catherine Payne Knaupp was born in Phenix City, Alabama to the late Ruth Kent Payne and Jesse M. Payne on August 18, 1924. She moved to Fort Pierce, Florida in the third grade and returned to Columbus in the tenth grade where she graduated from Columbus High School. Catherine went to Maryville College in Tennessee. Later she received her Master’s degree in Administration and Supervision. She taught school for many years in Phenix City before coming to Columbus to serve as Food Service Director in the Muscogee County School District. Catherine was very active in the First Presbyterian Church in Columbus and the American School Food Service Association. Survivors include her daughter, Cathy Johnson Smith and her husband Dan Smith of Columbus; granddaughter, Allie Johnson of Columbus; step-grandson, Nathan Smith of North Carolina; great-niece, Susan Slaughter of Virginia and great-nephew, Steve Slaughter of Florida. She also leaves many devoted and wonderful friends.

Gerald R. Knecht was born December 6, 1931 and passed away March 11, 2017. A farmer, blue water sailor, community leader and San Francisco attorney, Jerry Knecht was a happy man who led a beautiful life. He was passionate about all his endeavors, yet guided by a calm and formidable intelligence that invariably brought him success as well as the love and respect of family, friends and colleagues. Jerry, a deeply loving family man, leaves behind his devoted wife Suzanne Knecht, his children, Nancy Mansfield, Alex Knecht and Lisa Zavieh, their spouses and children, as well as a brother, Glen Knecht, and sister, Nancy Cimbal, and their families. He was predeceased by his parents, Wilma and Robert Knecht, and his eldest brother, Robert Knecht. Jerry’s career in law began at Boalt Hall, from which he graduated in 1957. He taught a year at Stanford Law before settling in San Francisco, where he formed the firm Knecht, Dingus, Fink & Boring. After 15 years as senior partner, he left to practice his surety bond specialty as a sole proprietor, returning to the old firm ten years later, by that time Knecht, Haley, Lawrence & Smith. Health issues forced his retirement in 1991, after a 33 year career in which he maintained a profound respect for law, worked long hours and loved every minute – especially those in the court room! In retirement, he and Suzanne seized the moment to indulge another long term passion, blue water sailing, with cruises in their 42′ sloop Night Watch to Mexico and Alaska, a third race to Hawaii, and to fulfill their dream, a two-year circling of the globe, for which Jerry was given a circumnavigation pennant from the Cruising Club of America, and voted Yachtsman of the Year by San Francisco Yacht Club, in which he had been a member for almost 30 years. Back in San Anselmo where Jerry and Suzanne lived for 27 years, Jerry joined the Board of Ross Valley Ecumenical Housing Association (RVEHA), which operates Tam house, a home providing room, board and community to low income seniors. He soon became president, and poured his heart, time and energy into building a second house, that upon its opening was debt free. He was as proud of Tam House II as a new father of his child. When presented with two preteen grandchildren in Santa Rosa and wanting to be closer, Jerry and Suzanne moved to Sebastopol where they built themselves a house and became growers of pinot noir grapes. Jerry’s last years were blessed with extensive involvement with all his family, his new community, his old buddies, and the joy of evenings on the patio with his Suzy, watching the sun color the sky over the vineyard. He was grateful for being able to share what they had with those less fortunate, as well as with organizations dedicated to making life better in this world. Jerry, our father, grandfather, and beloved husband passed away peacefully at Kaiser Hospital in Santa Rosa, surrounded by his immediate family. Jerry was always very grateful, as is all his family, to the many Kaiser doctors and nurses who were so attentive and caring for the last 60 years. We will all miss his contagious smile and twinkling blue eyes, his gentle nature and kindness, his dedication to doing what was right and his loving support for family and friends. And no gathering of those who love him will ever be the same without his recitation more emotional with the passing of time – of T. S. Eliot’s The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock. Our sweet, inimitable Jerry will be forever loved, fondly remembered and sorely missed.

Dr. Glen C. Knecht, Sr., 94, was received into the glory of his Savior on April 23, 2024, at his home, Laurel Haven, in Laurel, MD. Born March 19, 1930, in Ogdensburg, NY, son of Robert and Wilma Knecht, Glen grew up in Syracuse, NY. Glen was brought to transformative, saving faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at summer camp as a teenager.

At 16, Glen began attending Maryville College where he met the love of his life, Betty Jane Greenwald. As the story goes, on their first date she told him she wanted to be a country schoolteacher and Glen replied, “That’s great because I want to be a country preacher!” Glen went on to graduate from Maryville and later from both Fuller Theological Seminary and Princeton Seminary where he received a Master of Theology Degree. He also received a Doctor of Divinity Degree (Honorary) from Covenant College, Lookout Mountain, GA.

Their marriage ceremony was broadcast on the live CBS television program, Bride and Groom and from there the couple embarked on a 72-year journey of service and devotion to the Lord and each other. Together, they answered the call to missionary work in Tabriz, Iran in 1958, and traversed the Atlantic Ocean with their young children, Todd and Beth, in tow. While in Iran, he provided a complete seminary education to an Iranian pastor. He preached in both Persian and Turkish in the church there and in English to the US government personnel in Tabriz. After five years, their term was complete. They returned to the US again by boat, having added Wendy and Janet to the family.

Glen’s first pastorate was at the Union Presbyterian Church in Kirkwood, Pennsylvania where he served before departing for the mission field. Upon his return he served for eight years as pastor of the Oxford Presbyterian Church in Oxford, Pennsylvania, during which Glen, Jr. and daughter, Amy, were born. His next pastorate was at the Wallace Memorial Presbyterian Church (then located) in Hyattsville, Maryland, a stone’s throw from the US Capitol. Glen served as senior pastor there from 1971 – 1983. From 1983 – 1997 he was Senior Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, SC. From 1997 – 2007 he served at Fourth Presbyterian Church, in Bethesda, MD, first as Assistant Pastor (Minister of Visitation) and then as Associate Pastor for Congregational Care. His last pastorate was at the Christ Reformed Evangelical Church, Annapolis, MD from 2007 – 2016. He was a member of the Potomac Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of America at the time of his death.

Amidst the social unrest of the 1960s, Glen navigated the challenges of racial tension with grace and compassion. During a time when the Ku Klux Klan planned a nearby rally, he led a prayer meeting at the church. A providential rainstorm ensued, sabotaging the rally, and redirecting the media’s attention to the powerful prayer meeting instead.

Recountings of God’s provision were commonplace in the Knecht home. One favorite story is when the Knecht family, now with six children, gathered in the living room and asked the Lord for school shoes for the coming year. The day was not over when the owner of the local shoe store called and offered both school shoes AND tennis shoes for every child.

Throughout the 1970s, while serving at Wallace Presbyterian Church the congregation experienced a spiritual revival, particularly among the youth from nearby high schools and the University of Maryland, with many coming to Christ. Three of the children’s spouses came from the Wallace congregation. While serving at Wallace Church, Glen was among those to press charges against the National Capital Union Presbytery for its reception of a candidate who could not affirm the deity of Christ. His bold and historic stand in the Presbyterian church defending the deity of Jesus Christ is remembered as a defining moment in the life of the denomination and the church.

He was honored to pastor the historic First Presbyterian Church of Columbia, SC. The kindness and generosity of that congregation blessed the entire Knecht family. During these sweet years in Columbia, their daughter, Janet’s condition with MS worsened. The First Presbyterian Church family lovingly cared for them, by putting in a pool for Janet’s therapy in the backyard of the manse. While serving in Columbia, he was named to the Order of the Palmetto in 1997, by South Carolina Governor David Beasley, the state’s highest civilian honor, given to citizens for lifetime achievements and contributions that have significantly benefited South Carolina.

When Janet married and moved to Maryland, the Lord blessed her and her husband, Jonathan, with a baby, yet her health continued to suffer. Glen and Betty Jane bought the house next door and moved to Laurel to serve them, along with daughters, Amy and her husband, Frick, and Wendy, and her husband, Craig. It was a team effort. When Janet’s earthly battle ended, Glen and Betty Jane’s longing for heaven intensified. During these years, he was called to serve as a pastor at Fourth Presbyterian Church in Bethesda and at the Christ Reformed Church in Annapolis.

Throughout his life this commitment to family guided his decision making. When he was preparing to marry Betty Jane, he put his plans for summer income on hold to help her dad on his farm after he had a heart attack. The Lord blessed that sacrifice by providing the TV wedding! He left the work in Iran when his father-in-law had another heart attack in the US. They left a thriving ministry in Columbia, SC to help care for daughter, Janet, and her son, Jamie.

Glen had a love for Iranian people throughout his life, as well as for all believers in the persecuted church around the world. He traveled to Pakistan, Ukraine, Cypress, and Ethiopia on short-term mission trips. Through the years Glen influenced countless men and women to follow Christ through his preaching and Christ-like character. He will be remembered for his generosity, hospitality, and his devotion to prayer. His firm convictions regarding honoring the Fourth Commandment, led him to write the book, The Day God Made, concerning the Sabbath, published in 2003 by Banner of Truth. In this volume, he urged a return to the right use of “this little section of time fenced off by God for the restoration and blessing of His people.” Even after retiring from full time ministry, Glen continued to serve the Lord with gladness. Most notably Glen and Betty Jane regularly welcomed and shared the gospel with the constant stream of visitors who showed up at the door of their home until he went to heaven.

Glen, or “Gra”, as he became known by his grandchildren, is survived by his wife of 72 years, Betty Jane Greenwald Knecht, son, Todd R. Knecht, (Jane), daughter, Elizabeth Myers, (Thomas), daughter Wendy Higgins, (Craig), son Glen C. Knecht, Jr. (Beth), and daughter Amy Frierson, (Frick). He is also survived by 17 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren (so far!) and many dear nieces and nephews. Glen was preceded in death by his daughter, Janet Lynn Dick (Jonathan), his parents, his sister, Nancy Cimbal and brothers Robert and Gerald Knecht. We loved him all the way to Heaven!

Meredith L. (Leach) Knight, Arlington, MA. On October 31st, 2021, just days short of turning 66, Meredith Knight née Leach, passed away. Meredith was born in Natick, MA to Anthony Leach and Nancy Middleton on November 4, 1955. Meredith lost her mother at a very young age, but adored her stepmother Helen, until she, too, passed away in 2015. Meredith is survived by her father, Anthony Leach of Orleans, MA. Meredith had suffered for many years with metastatic thyroid cancer. She bore it courageously and with fortitude. She received excellent care from the medical teams at Mt. Auburn and Massachusetts General Hospitals and truly cherished everyone on these teams.

Merelee (Meredith Lee) Knott (age 80; DOB 7/20/1941) passed away on 2/22/22, a few weeks after a severe stroke. She was the daughter of John and Margene Knott.

The Rev. Elizabeth B. Knott was born on July 29, 1927 in Philadelphia. She died June 13, 2022 at Glen Oaks in Urbandale. She enjoyed traveling the world. After her retirement she created Pal CraftAid a nonprofit organization that supported the Palestinian people. In the time Pal CraftAid was active she provided 1.6 million dollars for various projects in Palestine by selling Palestinian needlepoint embroidery and sculpted olive wood. Her greatest joy was visiting her Palestinian friends. In the Presbyterian Church she served at all levels from parishes to Synod. She was known for her hearty laugh and her generosity to many charities. Liz Knott was an outspoken proponent of equality for all people. She died with her longtime friend and companion, Connie DePond at her side.

Douglas C. Koehler aged 85, of Bethlehem PA passed away on the afternoon of April 12 at his home. He was predeceased by his sister Arlene, of Soleberry Township. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years Shirley, his brother Ray of Mansfield, his son Michael, daughter-in-law Rachel, and 5 adored grandchildren: Natalie, Aiden, Isaac, Dylan, and Jackson. Douglas was born to Ray and Maisie Koehler in Macungie on November 28th,1938 and after finishing high school went on to graduate with a BS in Chemistry from Maryville College. He and Shirley married in January 1981. He pursued a long and successful career at Grandview Hospital as an RN. Among his myriad of hobbies were stamp collecting, kite flying, camping, winemaking, the study of New Testament Greek, and a general love of reading across a huge variety of topics. In his later years, his time was spent tending an enormous garden, petting his dog Piper, napping, and most importantly spending time with his beloved grandchildren who never failed to make him smile.

Carolyn Koerselman, 80, of West Fargo, died on Wednesday, January 25, 2023, at Eventide Sheyenne Crossings, in West Fargo.

Carolyn Ann Lurcott was born on February 6, 1942, in New York City (Queens), NY, to Alfred and Marie (Kandler) Lurcott.  She grew up and attended area schools, graduating from high school in 1960.  She then attended Maryville College in Tennesee, where she earned a bachelor’s degree, then attending Fergus Falls (MN) Community College for 2 years and earned a master’s degree, later working as an LPN.

On June 6, 1964, she married Lewis Koerselman at Seminary Chapel in Louisville, KY.

Carolyn worked in Christian Education at various churches throughout the places to which they moved, including New York City (Bronx), NY, Kansas City, MO, Houston, TX, Independence, MO, Canadian, TX, Elbow Lake, MN at which point she worked as a nurse in the Fergus Falls Hospital, and finally to Eagle Lake, MN, where they lived until Lewis’s death in 2002.  A few years later, she moved to West Fargo, ND, to be closer to family.

Carolyn enjoyed attending bible studies, time spent with her family, reading, playing cards, watching the MN Twins, going out to eat, shopping, a good Sangria, and loved her dog, Molly.  She was a member of Community Presbyterian Church in West Fargo.

Carolyn is survived by her children, Beth (Mark Fried) Olson, West Fargo, John (Patrice) Koerselman, Horace; three grandchildren, Zach (Madi Ross) Olson, West Fargo, Jessica Koerselman, and Andrew Koerselman, both of Horace; and one brother, Bob (Ginny) Lurcott, of SC.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis; parents, Alfred and Marie; parents-in-law, Lewis Sr. and Elizabeth Koerselman; a brother-in-law, Walt Koerselman; and a sister-in-law, Betsy McCampbell.

Dr. Paul C. Kolter, Associate Professor Emeritus, Georgia State University was born in 1921. While attending Maryville College in Maryville, Tennessee he enlisted in the US Infantry in January of 1942 and served 4 years during WWII. During his service he was Cadre involved in training recruits especially in weapon care and use. Later he trained Japanese Americans, the Nisei, who made up the famed 100th Battalion of the Italian Campaign. En route to Japan for the Army of Occupation, he was recalled by Air Transport Command to become Head Personnel Clerk at Camp Kohler, California, where he remained until discharged in 1946. He returned to graduate from Maryville College and received his Masters Degree at University of Tennessee (Knoxville) in 1950. For 2 years, he taught at Maryville College and then moved to Georgia State in Atlanta, teaching there while working for a Doctoral Degree at Emory University. During his tenure he taught many students and courses at Grady, Piedmont, Crawford Long, St. Joseph Hospitals and Georgia Baptist Medical Center. After a tenure of 30+ years, he retired in 1985. Actively involved in the antique business, he had a booth at ElCo at Lakewood Fairgrounds and Scott Antique Show at the Atlanta Exposition Center for many years. During these years, he was able to make numerous trips to Europe, Africa, and Asia. A longtime resident of Sandy Springs since 1958, he is survived by nieces and nephews, the Joe Anderson family, Fares, Harriet and Evan Schlank of Knoxville, TN and Gerd and Waltraut Schroth of Atlanta, GA, Angela, Greg, Lucy and Felix Liegel of Chicago, IL, Peter, Anne, Otto and Angus Schroth of Greensboro, NC, Terry Martel, Jim Spencer and many other friends from within the Atlanta area.

Iantha Jean Peterson Koster, 82, of Nellysford, passed away on Thursday, November 10, 2016. She is survived by her beloved husband, Brian Koster; and daughters, Karen Thrane Davis of Richmond, Va., and Karla Kunen Chaillet of Charlottesville; grandchildren Alexander and William Thrane and Aubrie and Madeline Chaillet; great-grandson, Axel James Thrane; and her sisters, Juanita Peterson Maeyens, Judith Peterson Hall, and Linda Peterson Wing. Iantha was the first child of Ada Mae and William Oren Peterson, born on August 20, 1934. She graduated from Maryville College in Tennessee where she met her first husband, Reverend Adolph Kunen. They raised Karen and Karla in Silver Spring, Md. Iantha was Lab Supervisor at Survival Technology and a devoted member of St. Mark’s Presbyterian in Bethesda. Iantha and her husband Brian Koster retired to Nelson County. Iantha was a pillar of the Rockfish Presbyterian Church until her transition to Rose Wood Village in 2014. A loving mother and grandmother, her life was dedicated to God, her family, and helping others. Her memory will be cherished forever. The family is so grateful to her caregivers during her struggle with Vascular Dementia. Donations in Iantha’s honor may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Employee Holiday Gift Fund c/o Rose Wood Village at Hollymead. The memorial service was Thursday, December 1 at Rockfish Presbyterian Church.