William "Doc" Knowles

William James Knowles, D.O. age 99 of St. Louis, MI died at Warwick Living Center on Sunday, April 3, 2016.

“Doc”, as he was familiarly known, was born in Fullerton, ND on April 8, 1916 to Roy Otis and Sarah Leora (Canedy) Knowles.  He married Helen Anita Coffin on May 15, 1942 and was heartbroken when she passed away on November 27, 2015.

Doc graduated from Springfield College, attended Purdue University and graduated from Kirksville College of Osteopathy. He was a retired physician, having practiced for over 32 years. He interned at Carson City Hospital and was the team physician for St. Louis High School for many years.

Doc served his country in the US Army from 1942-1945 receiving a purple heart.  He was a member of First United Methodist Church, St Louis MI, former St. Louis School Board president, founder of the St. Louis Boys Club and started the wrestling team.  Doc was also a member of the American Legion and former Rotarian and Lions Club member. He has been a member of the Boy Scouts of America since he was 12 years old, attending many National and World Jamborees and receiving the Silver Beaver Award

given to adult leaders who have made an impact on the lives of youth through service given to the council. He helped over 50 young men reach the rank of Eagle Scout.

He is survived by six children; 2 daughters; Barbara and Ken Hagen of St. Louis, MI, Gail Knowles of Westminster, CO, 4 sons; William and Elizabeth Knowles of St. Petersburg, FL, Frederick and Ann Knowles of New Bern, NC, David Knowles of Sturbridge, MA, Steven and Ruthie Knowles of New Bern, NC, 14 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Helen Knowles, one sister and two brothers.

A Celebration of the Lives of Doc and Helen Knowles will take place on Saturday, April 9, 2016 at 11:00 am at St. Louis First United Methodist Church with visitation beginning at 10:00.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 116 S Franklin, St. Louis, MI 48880.  Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, Michigan.