Emil J. Knodel - 1985

      Funeral services for Emil J. Knodel were held May 29, at the Hope United Church of Christ. Officiating the service was the Rev. Lyle Schossow of Lakewood, a family friend and former pastor of the Knodel's church in Lakewood. Musical numbers were sung by the Hope Men's Chair. Denis and Jake Stahlecker sand a duet entitled, "My God and I."
      Casket bearers were Lloyd Knodel, Brian Knodel, Daniel Schaal, Leon Schaal, Wayne Stahlecker and Howard Stahlecker. Interment was at the Fairview Cemetery with Hendricks Mortuary in charge of arrangements.
      Emil was born July 31, 1906, on a homestead 11 miles north of Bethune, the son of Peter and Christina (Dobler) Knodel. The death of his father left Emil as a small child along with two sisters, Mary and Lydia, his brother Ted, and mother to carry on the farm work. In 1935, Emil married Pauline Stahlecker and continued farming until 1946. Farming was his love, but health problems forced him to seek another form of employment.
      Emil lived in the Lakewood, Colorado area since 1954. He retired from Sears Roebuck in 1972. Retirement offered the opportunity for travel, and travel he did. Numerous trips were made to Idaho, Washington, Oregon, California and Canada.
      His sudden death on May 24, was a shock to his family, relatives and many friends.
      He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Pauline, a son, Lloyd and his wife Margie, one brother Ted of Loveland, two sisters, Mary of Wapato, Wash., and Lydia of Stratton. Grandchildren, Brian, David, Steven, Michael, Marcie and Ronnie.