William Joe "Bill" Knebel, an independent thinker, devoted husband and father, passed away Monday, August 29, 2022 in Staunton, Virginia.

Born on August 4, 1924, he was 98 years old and died peacefully of natural causes.

He is survived by his 5 children: Debra and husband Allen Waters of Virginia Beach, VA, Kristine and husband Michael Crickenberger of Richmond, VA, Kathleen and husband Ray Lillard of Richmond, VA, Timothy Knebel of Hampton, VA, Barbara and husband Holt Moran of Aiken, SC; 4 grandchildren: Aaron Crickenberger, Sean Crickenberger and wife Jennifer, Travis Moran and wife Jac, Julie Moran and 4 great-grandchildren: Desmond Crickenberger, Makenna Moran, Brayden Moran, and Weston Moran.

Born in Van Buren Township, Indiana, to Floyd William Knebel and wife Opal Carrie Blinn, Bill was the last survivor of 5 boys. He and the love of his life, Marie Melinda Koebcke, were married just short of 65 years. Marie preceded him in death in 2017.

Bill attended Purdue University's Engineering School before leaving to serve his country in WWII.  He retired from an Engineering career with Genicom (formerly General Electric) in 1982. Bill would like to thank all his many friends at The Legacy of North Augusta where he and his wife resided for over 13 years.

A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 29, 2022 at Augusta Memorial Park in Waynesboro with Chaplain Bill Stewart officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in William J. Knebel's name to The Legacy at North Augusta, 1410A N. Augusta St., Staunton, VA 24401.

Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Driver, Staunton is in charge of his arrangements.