Leo “Bud” Troy Knachel, 87, of Three Rivers, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2010 at the Rose Arbor Hospice Facility. He was born in Three Rivers on March 11, 1923 the son of Harvey and Lelah (Geark) Knachel.
Leo served his country during WWII, being honorably discharged from the U.S. Army. Leo was employed at Hydramatic and later retired from American Axle in 1987. He was a member of the American Legion Hice-Shutes Post #170, the Three Rivers Masonic Lodge, the Three Rivers Elks #1248, Sauganash Country Club, St. Joe Valley C.C., and loved bowling, fishing, and all animals.
Bud was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Marie Ware; two infant sons; and one daughter.
He leaves to cherish his loving memory his wife, Maxine Joan (Plucinski) Knachel of Three Rivers, whom Leo married Oct. 24, 1963; three children, daughters Linda Geerts and Tonya Britton, one son Mike Britton; eight grandchildren, Tim, Kristina and Megan Cutler, Allison Geerts, Renea, Elaine, Mark and Larry Britton; 16 great-grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Norma Puglia of Three Rivers.
The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until the time of memorial service at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 6 at the Hohner Funeral Home, with Father David Lillvis officiating. Military Honors under the auspices of the American Legion Hice-Shutes Post #170.
Memorials may be donated to the Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Envelopes available at the funeral home.