RICHARD E. "PAPA DICK" KNOWLES
GUILFORD: Richard E. "Papa Dick" Knowles, 77, died Friday, June 30th at his home in Guilford. He was born August 4, 1929 in Salem, Massachusetts to Raymond and Ruth (Perkins) Knowles. Dick grew up in Willimantic, and lived his adult life in Guilford where he was employed at Guilford Industries, Western Auto, and Pride Manufacturing, where he retired from after many years of employment. He also volunteered for many years at the Guilford Fire Department.

Dick was an avid hunter and fisherman, and spent every available minute at his camp on Wilson Stream. He was an excellent marksman, and was a very creative man, especially when it came to his outside projects.

Dick looked forward to his Saturday afternoon rides to Greenville with his beloved wife, Gloria of over 50 years, and with his long time friend Richard "Beetle" Nesbit. Dick was loved by all who knew him, and will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Dick is survived by a brother, Arthur Knowles of Connecticut; a sister Dolly (Knowles) Harman of Milo; 2 sons, Larry Knowles of Guilford and Mickey Knowles and wife Jeanne of Abbot; grandchildren, Chris Knowles and wife, Tammy of Sebec, Jamie Knowles of Willimantic, Connecticut, Jody Knowles and wife Kasey of Glenburn, and Adam Knowles of Abbot. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Dick was predeceased by 2 sisters, Marjorie Bearce and Shirley Crocker; a granddaughter, Tiffany Knowles; and his wife Gloria, who recently passed away.

Family and friends will meet for a graveside service for both Dick and Gloria on Friday, July 7, at 1:00 in the afternoon at the Blanchard Cemetery on the Davidson Road, Abbot with Pastor Ray Beless officiating.

Arrangements by Crosby & Neal, Dexter. To sign the online guestbook go to www.CrosbyNeal.com.