KNELL, SR., Bruce Henry

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Wednesday, January 15, 2014 Bruce Henry Knell Sr. walked into the arms of his Savior, Jesus, on Friday, Jan. 10, 2014, peacefully at his home after a short battle with acute leukemia. He was born Feb. 23, 1943, in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, to Herman and Mary (Mendez) Knell. He grew up on a farm in Indiana, Pa., and never lost his love of growing up there, even after moving to Arizona in 1979. He graduated from Oliver High School in 1961 and then enlisted in the United States Army. He was a hardworking man who was not afraid to take risks and had several business ventures over his lifetime, including Arizona Vinyl Waterproofing. He retired from Western PA Trucking Union and also worked for Better Built Windows in Prescott Valley. Bruce leaves behind his loving wife, Frances (Beaudet); and eight children, Doug, Dawn Pufnock (Jeff), Bruce Jr. (Tanya), Russell (Elizabeth), Minnie Hunt (David), Jessica Ewing (Jason), Charlie (Jamie) and Bobby; three stepchildren, James Wyatt, Cathy Lowther (Chris) and Theresa Wyatt; 26 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren; beloved brother and best friend Raymond Mendez (Dorie); and six nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Mary, daughter Rebecca, and five siblings who died in infancy. He will always be remembered for his quick smile, daring spirit and larger-than-life personality. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Westside Christian Church in Prescott. A celebration of life will be noon Saturday, Jan. 18, 2014, at the Elks Club in Prescott Valley. His burial will be at the family plot in Indiana, Pa. Information provided by survivors.