Robert Albert Knowles

YORK- Reverend Robert A. Knowles, 92, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 4, 2017 at his residence. He was the husband of the late Helen (Cobb) Knowles who passed away on August 27, 2000. Services for Mr. Knowles are private at the convenience of the family. Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., 1551 Kenneth Rd., York is in charge of arrangements. Born on August 1, 1925 in New York City, he was a son of the late Ralph S. and Mary (Kasper) Knowles. During World War II, he served in the Navy and was stationed on Guam. Robert was ordained in 1952 and served in several states over the years for the United Church of Christ. Mr. Knowles was very involved with missionary work and Habitat for Humanity. Robert was inducted into the Springfield College Athletic Hall of Fame and held the one mile record for 22 years. Mr. Knowles is survived by one son, David Knowles and wife, Carol Lebold of Ashfield, MA; three daughters, Deborah Jones and husband, Bill of Englewood, FL, MaryAnne Syrett and husband, Bob of Clayton, GA and Becky Tallman and husband, Perry of York; 10 grandchildren, Rob Noyes and wife, Sonya Taaffe, Ryan Parker, David Parker and wife, Amy Jo, Thea Knowles, Galen Knowles, Laura Kay Hicks and husband, Brandon, Daniel Gibbs, Matthew Tallman, Brett Tallman and Katie Tallman; two great grandchildren, Jace and Nora Parker; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Ralph S. Knowles, Jr. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a local Habitat for Humanity or a favorite charity of your choice in Robert’s memory.