Donald Knoll ’57

Donald K. Knoll, age 87, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, March 2, 2023. Don was born and raised in Holland, MI for much of his childhood before moving to Grand Rapids. He went to Ottawa Hills High School and graduated with the Class of 1953. Don attended the University of Michigan before transferring to Hope College and graduated with a business degree in 1957. His desire to serve his country led him to join the US Air Force National Guard and Reserves where he was active for eight years. Don worked as an accountant for several companies before accepting the position of internal auditor for the City of Grand Rapids where he stayed for 23 years before retiring. Immanuel Reformed Church was his home church for most of his life where he served the Lord faithfully as an elder, deacon, youth leader, and treasurer. He later attended Fellowship Reformed Church where he enjoyed worshipping and close friendships. Don was a loyal fan of the University of MI and Hope College sports. He followed the teams closely, rarely missed watching a game, and proudly wore their logos with pride. His beloved hobby was collecting die cast cars and trucks as well as Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars. Wheeling and dealing them with other collectors gave him great joy. He also enjoyed traveling and vacationing with family and close friends. Being in the water while swimming or on a boat was a favorite pastime. Most of all he loved supporting and attending his daughter’s and grandchildren’s activities such as sporting events, plays, concerts, and dance performances. He will be remembered for his jolly smile, corny jokes, and jovial sense of humor as well as his caring heart for others. His daughter, DeeAnn Amos; preceded him in death. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 62 years, Dolores “Dee”; daughter, Denise ’92 (Jim) Blunk; son-in-law, Chuck Amos; grandchildren, Nathan and Matthew Amos, Adrianna and Cailynn Blunk; sister, Marilyn Dykstra; sisters-in-law, Adalyn Hildebrand, Viola Koets; and many nieces and nephews.