Richard “Rich” Jay Knittle

Richard Jay ‘Rich’ Knittle (95) of Midland, Texas passed away on July 11, 2024, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Richard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, whose legacy of love and dedication will be cherished forever. A come-and-go reception to celebrate Richard’s life will take place at the Manor Park Atrium on August 16th from 3:00 – 5:00 pm.

Richard Jay (Rich) Knittle was born on July 25, 1928, in Elyria, Ohio to Hilda and James Knittle. Richard grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated from West Technical High School in 1946 where he participated in football and wrestling. Upon graduation from high school, he joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea for two years. After being honorably discharged, he used the GI Bill to attend Case Western Reserve University, where he earned a BS in Mathematics and Geology. His professional career was distinguished, beginning with Amoco as a geophysicist from 1955 to 1971, followed by a period as a consulting geophysicist until 1976, and concluding with his work at Coquina from 1976 to 1982.

In 1953, Richard met the love of his life, Norma Ruth Rogers, in Brownfield, Texas. They married on October 3, 1953, in Hobbs, New Mexico, and enjoyed 71 wonderful years of marriage. Together they had 6 children, 4 daughters and 2 sons. Richard was a passionate sports enthusiast, particularly for the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Tech Red Raiders. In retirement, he pursued his love of golf, often playing 54 holes a day, and took up cycling into his 80s, making notable trips around Midland and Odessa. He was also a mall walker at Midland Park Mall and made several lifelong friends on his daily walks. Richard was known for his debating spirit, his ability to fix anything with a zip tie and duct tape, and his volunteer work with Meals on Wheels. Richard’s love for family was paramount. Despite his immediate family being spread out, he financed biennial reunions to ensure that his children and grandchildren remained close, fostering deep connections among the cousins. Richard will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, resilience, and family devotion will continue to inspire and unite those he left behind.

Richard is survived by his devoted wife, Norma Knittle; daughters Betty Wing and her husband Tim of Poulsbo, WA, and their children Zachary Wing and Lindsay Foster (Daniel); Susan Powers and her husband Fred of Beaverton, OR, and their children Katelyn Powers (Eric), and John Powers; Carol Kernaghan and her husband Daniel of Tolar, TX, and their children Kevin Kernaghan (Nora), and Kristen Kernaghan (Justin); Beverly Minyard and her husband Corey of Garland, TX, and their children Emily Minyard and Jachin Minyard; Thomas Knittle and his wife Susan of Midland, TX, and their children Tyler Knittle (Cassidy), Ryan Knittle, Reed Knittle, and Ross Knittle. Richard also leaves 4 great-grandchildren.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Beverly Trone; and his son, Richard (Rickey) Jay Knittle Jr.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Midland and the first and second-floor staff of Helen Greathouse Manor for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Midland or Senior Life Midland (Meals on Wheels).

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelcom.com.

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