Gerald C. 'Jerry' Knowles

Gerald Chapman Knowles, 85, of Cathlamet, passed away Oct. 26, 2013, after a long battle with breast cancer.

A funeral service was held Nov. 1 at Dowling Funeral Home in Cathlamet. Pastor Matt Stacey officiated with guest speaker and longtime family friend Tom Kandoll. The burial followed at Greenwood Cemetery with military honors.

Jerry was born to Lamoine Chapman Knowles and Bertha Van Leuven Dec. 18, 1927, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, where he grew up. He served in the Navy as a Seabee and was stationed in Okinawa during World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1946 and returned to Council Bluffs. He went on to hold the position of fire chief in his home town for several years. In 1962 he moved to Cathlamet and worked at Crown for 21 years. During these years he also volunteered for the county sheriff’s office and fire departments, both Cathlamet and District 4 for 25 years.

During his time as a deputy reserve he met his wife Jonnie after pulling her over for speeding. They married in 1971 and went on to have six beautiful daughters. Jerry loved his family and children very much and worked hard every day to provide for them. Work ethic and strength were two great qualities that described him perfectly.

Jerry Knowles is survived by his wife, Jonnie Knowles; their children, Amy Knowles, Heather Ratcliff, Heidi Mast, Brandi Thomas, Kristi Langston and Mandi Knowles. From a previous marriage, Pat Knowles, Frank Knowles, John Knowles. Ten grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by his eldest son, Michael Knowles.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cathlamet Ambulance Service.