Eugene Christian Knecht, Sr., 88, of Addington Place, Dublin, GA, formerly of Durham and Raleigh, NC, passed away on Friday, June 14, 2019.

Mr. Knecht was born in Wilkes-Barre, PA and was the son of the late George and Mae Schorr Knecht.

Gene graduated from Elmer L Myers High School, in Wilkes-Barre, PA, and continued his education at Essex County Vocational School where he received his diploma in Mechanical Drafting. His expertise lead to several successful patents during his lengthy career as a tool designer for Westinghouse.

Upon retirement, Gene enjoyed spending time with his growing family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he dearly loved. Gene also enjoyed pottery and spending time at their cabin on Lake Gaston.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Knecht was preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his sons, Lois Sims Knecht in 1969, and 2nd wife of 47 years, Betty Durden Knecht, on June 9, 2019.

Survivors include, sons Eugene C Knecht Jr. of King George VA, and David (Sherry) Kappel Knecht of Raleigh NC, daughters Laurie (Kenny) Thomas of Edgewater FL, Tammy (Noel) Weigel of Dublin GA; sister Lois Garland of Enfield, CT; grandchildren Danielle (James) Wagner, Mallory (Isham) Boyer, Dakota Kappel Knecht, and Sonoma Kappel Knecht, Jason (Jeannell) Thomas, Joshua Thomas, Lauren (Michael) Lowery, Matthew (Ranna) Weigel, Paige Weigel; great-grandchildren Shane Wagner, Payton Canady, Ryder Nichols, Libby Weigel, and numerous nieces and nephews. Gene was dearly loved by his family and will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held at Addington Place, Dublin GA on Saturday, June 22, 2019, at 11:00 am. Burial will be at Raleigh Memorial Park, Raleigh, NC on July 9, 2019 at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Gene's name to Serenity Hospice Foundation, 520 Hillcrest Parkway, Dublin GA 31021.