Pittsford, NY – Wendel L. Knoll passed away June 11th at the age of 86.
He survived by wife Patricia, son Wendel (wife Ann), son John (wife Tammy), daughter Mary (husband Joe), sister in-law Sister Mary Joan Millecan, grandchildren Mary, Kyle, Kaitlyn, James, & nieces/nephews Roger (& family), Donna, & Eric Millecan.
Wendel grew up in Syracuse, NY & was a graduate of Syracuse University. He went to Officer Candidate school and became a U.S. Naval Aviator during the Korean conflict where he flew P2V7s and became a squadron commander. He started his civilian career at General Dynamics and then settled into his Rochester Gas & Electric (RGE) Environmental Engineer role to round out his professional career. He was a learned professional earning two master’s degrees while raising his family. He also taught night classes at RIT and ST John Fisher College. In his retirement, Wendel qualified as a YMCA lifeguard where he enjoyed opening up the pool to serve others until age 77.
He was a devoted son & husband that ensured the family’s general welfare. He was involved in coaching baseball & all athletics & teaching math/physics. He enjoyed music, playing the guitar & accordion, & riding his motorcycle.
Wendel always had a positive & caring attitude. He was genuinely concerned for others, getting to know them, & caring about their general well-being.
A private funeral was convened at ST. John’s Home, Rochester, NY June 13th. Donations in his memory can be sent to: https://www.stjohnsliving.org/make-a-gift-form/
One response to “Knoll, Wendel L.”
Dear Knoll Family,
On behalf of the RG&E Armed Forces Club, please accept our sincerest condolences, and the thanks of a grateful nation for Wendell’s service to his country.
He was a fine man, a hard worker, a mentor and an inspiration to many, and a good friend to all who knew him.
Sincerely,
Lee M. Loomis, Chaplain