Obituaries

Waterford – On Nov. 2, 2021, John Alton Knowles quietly passed away surrounded by his loving family. His kind and giving heart finally stopped beating as he transitioned to eternal peace.

John was the beloved husband of Lillian (Nash) Knowles. They had been married 51 years; and we can honestly say that John woke up in love every day. She survives him.

John was born in Attawaugan, Jan. 7, 1933. He was the son of Harold Knowles Sr. and Marie Cabana Knowles. He was raised in Danielson, and graduated from Killingly High School in 1951. After high school, he joined the U. S. Army as a member of the U.S. Army Signal Battalion in Salzburg, Austria. After serving in the military, he began a 38-year career at Electric Boat as a supervisor in the graphics arts department. He retired in 1995. He continued to work for five years in the printing department for Connecticut College. He finally retired for good in 2000, and “enjoyed life to the fullest.”

John was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Paul’s Church in Waterford. He served as an usher, trustee, and had been a member of the church council. He was a lifelong member of the Groton Lodge of Elks #2163, Knights of Columbus #17, Waterford VFW #6573, EBMA and board of directors for Jordan Cemetery.

John led a simple life devoted to his family. He loved sports, especially the Red Sox. His greatest joy came from watching his grandchildren compete and play sports from Little League through Waterford High School athletics. Baseball, football, tennis or swimming, he was always there as a loyal fan and supporter.

John is survived by his sons, David Blair (Nancy) of Waterford, Michael Blair of New London; daughters, Paula Guido (Mark) of Waterford, and Cynthia Knowles of Groton; grandchildren, Stephanie Henry (Jared) of Waterford, Katelyn Kneeland (Max) of Waterford, Kerry Perrotta (Sarah) of Austin, Texas, and Jon Blair of Austin, Texas; great-grandchildren, Owen, Weston and Harper. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews in the Danielson area. John was predeceased by his brother Harold Knowles Sr.; and sisters, Aline Pepin and Rita Larocque.

“Rest in peace, John. You lived a great life.”

A private graveside service with military honors will be held at a later date.