Larry Knecht passed away at his home in Hamilton City, CA on April 8, 2023 at the age of 81. He was born in Corning California to Dan and Amy (Lepper) Knecht on April 1, 1942. Larry graduated from Hamilton Union High School in 1960 where he was an outstanding athlete in football, basketball, baseball, and track. On April 8, 1961 he married his high school sweetheart Joanne Kohnke. Upon their marriage they moved to Sacramento where Larry was a field representative for the ASCS agriculture office. A couple years later, he was transferred to the Auburn office at which time he and his family moved to Lincoln, CA. After a few of years with ASCS, Larry returned to the occupation that would prove to be his true calling as a construction laborer and later business agent for the Laborers Union Local 185. Larry retired after 41 years, in which, he worked 27 years in the field and 14 years as business agent. With this, Larry would move back to his hometown of Hamilton City raising his family and where he would spend the remainder of his life. Larry coached Little League baseball for several years and was active in other sports leagues. He mentored many young people over the years and was thought of very fondly by those he took under his wing. Upon his retirement he enjoyed golfing weekly with his good friend Dean Hutchens and many others. He devoted many years to the Lion's Club of Hamilton City where he was very active and enjoyed the members he served the community with. Larry was instrumental in many projects that the Lion's Club was known for in the area. He greatly valued the personal friendships he developed with members of this club. He truly enjoyed time in his shop where he did lots of woodworking and socializing with friends and family. His favorite time of year was when spring time came and he would plant his vegetable garden. He got much pleasure in sharing the bounty of the garden with friends and neighbors. Larry was a dedicated family man and avid people person. He loved his many friends and family members. He loved to laugh, be among people, and enjoyed playing the occasional prank. He was a kind, generous, and giving man who would always help those in need in various ways. Never asking anything in return. In his retirement, his greatest joy was spending time with his family, friends, and especially his grandsons - Gabriel and Michael. In addition to his parents Dan & Amy Knecht, he was predeceased by his sister Louise Miller. Larry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joanne (Kohnke) Knecht, sons Dan Knecht and Ron Knecht, grandsons Gabriel Knecht and Michael Knecht, and great grandchildren Luca Knecht and Kyra Knecht. A Celebration Of Life will be held for Larry at a later date. Those who wish to remember Larry in special way may make donations to the Hamilton City Lion's Club, Hamilton City Fire Department, or Hamilton Union High School athletics.

Arrangements are held under the direction of Sweet-Olsen Family Mortuary.