Kenneth Knettel

Kenneth Knettel, age 89, formerly of Sartell, passed away October 30, 2013, at the Golden Living Center in Walker, MN. Kenny grew up during the Great Depression. He was recruited into the Civilian Conservation Corps at the age of 16, stationed at Effie, MN, and was able to send money home to support his family. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1941 and served 4 years during WWII, sailing to Japan with Douglas McGrath's convoy and stationed on several South Pacific islands. Kenny worked for Great Northern and Burlington Railroad for 36 years as a conductor/brakeman and enjoyed the early years working with the steam engines.

Kenny married Joan in 1947 and raised 5 children: Karen Peternell, Suzanne Corbell, Pam Elich, Mark Knettel and Becky Opatz. Kenny will be sadly missed because he was very close to his family. He enjoyed visiting his children and grandchildren often. He will always be remembered for his gardening, cooking, fishing, hunting, playing with his sawmill and the thousands of hours he logged as a private pilot in the air.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.