William C. Knauer

William Knauer was born and raised in Reading, Pennsylvania, on January 14, 1946, he was married to Paulette (Keller) Knauer for 45 years and the son of the late Virginia F. and William W. Knauer. He passed away on April 19, 2014 in The Highlands Skilled Nursing Center after being admitted the previous day.

He is survived by his daughter, Amy and her husband, Scott D. Remley of Sinking Spring; two grandchildren: Jillian and Jenna Remley; his sister, Linda and her husband, David Neaves of Naples, Florida; and two nephews: Christopher Moyer and Bradley Moyer. He was predeceased by his brother, Wesley Knauer.

Known always to friends and family as Billy, he graduated from Reading High School, class of 1963. He also attended Florida College and Susquehanna University.

Billy also served in the United States Navy for four years and was a proud veteran of the Vietnam War, stationed aboard the U.S.S. Newport News off the coast of Vietnam for two years.He was also a lifetime member of the V.F.W.

After being discharged from the Navy, he returned to Reading and joined the newly formed family business, All Star Distributing, in 1975. He became a beer salesman and was also the owner of Lancaster Beverage, a branch of All Star.

An avid and enthusiastic sports fan, he followed all the Philadelphia teams, Penn State, and Reading High, excited by their wins, optimistic even with their losses. But golfing was his greatest pleasure. His father introduced him to the game at age 12 and he played on Reading High golf team for four years. Over the years he had the opportunity to play at many courses in Berks and throughout the country. He loved them all!

When All Star Distributing was sold in 2001, he was thrilled to be able to spend his winters in Florida and he eventually joined Pelican Marsh Golf Club in Naples, Florida. He played everyday.

His greatest joy in life came when Amy and Scott made him a grandfather. First Jillian, followed by Jenna, his beautiful granddaughters. He was a loving, adored and doting grandfather, always available for any activity. We miss you already, Poppy.

Blessed with an optimistic personality, he faced his final challenge with dignity and courage.

He will be forever missed and remembered always by his loving family.

Billy was also a member of Atonement Lutheran Church.

Services will be Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at 11 a.m. in Atonement Lutheran Church, 5 Wyomissing Blvd, Wyomissing, PA 19610. A visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. in the church. Burial will be private in Forest Hills Memorial Park. Contributions may be made to Atonement Lutheran Church at the above address. Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., West Reading is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be recorded at www.kuhnfuneralhome.com.