Obituary of Allen John Knehr

Allen John Knehr, age 94, of Honesdale passed away peacefully on Monday, March 4, 2024, at Wayne Memorial Hospital, Honesdale. Known as Al, Pop or Poppy, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Ethel A. (Carber) Knehr, in 2020. Born August 19, 1929, on his family's farm in Cherry Ridge, Al was the son of the late Adolph Anthony and Jean Louise (Kinsman) Knehr. He was a Navy veteran, serving in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. A Fire Control Technician, he achieved the rank of Chief and before retirement became Senior Chief. His shipmates called him "The Judge" because he always settled their disputes. During his career among other awards, he was the recipient of the Good Conduct Medal six times, the Korean Service Medal with Star and the Vietnam Service Medal with Two Bronze Stars and served on the USS Douglas H. Fox, the USS Soley and the USS Chicago. After retiring from the Navy, he returned to his hometown to live and work. Over the years, Al worked on the Lienert Family farm, and later at S.J. Bailey Furniture and Kinzinger Auction House. He was also a constable for Cherry Ridge Township. Al and his wife Ethel loved their camping years at Lake Wallenpaupack and their time wintering in Florida. A deeply kind man, he was dearly loved by his entire family, especially his many, many grandchildren. Their Poppy enjoyed spending time and talking with them, making each of them feel important and treasured by him. He is survived by six children: Allan Knehr and his wife Gwen of Carriere, MS, Ethel Schmitt and her husband Peter of Hawley, Melanee Knehr of Deerfield Beach, FL, Kathleen Allen of Honesdale, Anthony Knehr and his husband Greg Turner of Hawley, and Anna Tuleya and her husband John of Honesdale; one sister: Janet Lienert of Honesdale; two sons-in-law: William Sandlin and Michael Brown; many grandchildren, great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Ricky Lane Knehr; a daughter, Talmadge Knehr; and a son-in-law, Richard Vezina. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Cremation will be held at Lake Region Crematory. His urn will be placed beside his wife and daughter at Glen Dyberry Cemetery in Honesdale. Al's family would like to extend their profound thanks to Kristina and the Elm Tree staff for the tremendous care and love they gave him, as well as the Wayne Memorial Hospital and their hospice staff for their excellent care.