Knieriem, Alfred Allen
Alfred Allen Knieriem, a revered veteran, a dedicated family man, and a pillar of his community, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2024, in Pearisburg, Virginia. Born on April 16, 1933, in Iowa City, Iowa, Alfred’s life was marked by a steadfast commitment to service, education, and the joys of family life.
Alfred’s journey began in the heartland of America, where the values of hard work and dedication were instilled in him from a young age. Alfred was proud of completing four years of college, Alfred further answered the call to serve his country and joined the United States Navy. His illustrious military career spanned over three decades, during which he was stationed in San Diego, California, and rose to the esteemed rank of E7 Chief Petty Officer. Alfred was not only a skilled Radio Operator but also an esteemed instructor of “Alfa SSC” and Petty Officer Leadership, shaping the lives of countless sailors with his wisdom and experience.
Beyond his military service, Alfred was a respected member of the Giles Masonic Lodge #106 AF&AM and held a cherished affiliation with the Al Bahr Shrine Temple in San Diego. His commitment to these organizations reflected his unwavering dedication to the principles of brotherhood and community service.
He was deeply rooted in his faith and was a dedicated member of the Pearisburg Presbyterian Church
Alfred’s interests outside his professional life were as rich and varied as his career. He was an avid coin collector, a pursuit that reflected his love for history and meticulous attention to detail. Square dancing was another of Alfred’s passions, providing not just exercise but also social interaction and a sense of community. He also found great pleasure in building puzzles, a hobby that paralleled the complexity and strategy he employed in his work and personal endeavors.
Family was the cornerstone of Alfred’s life. He was a beloved husband to his wife, Mary Kay Knieriem, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and cherished memories. A loving father to his son, Stephen Murray, and daughters, Mary and Beth Murray, Alfred instilled in his children the values of integrity, respect, and the importance of education. His legacy continues to thrive through his ten grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, who will remember him for his wisdom, kindness, and the stories he shared.
Alfred was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma Fox, who no doubt laid the foundations for the remarkable man he would become. Her memory and influence remained a guiding force throughout his life.
As we bid farewell to Alfred, we reflect on a life well-lived, a journey marked by honor, service, and love. His was a life that exemplified the virtues of loyalty, leadership, and community. The family will receive friends at a time of visitation on Thursday, October 3, 2024 from 6:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Kendall Funeral Home. A funeral service will be conducted for Mr. Knieriem on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at 7:00 PM in the Kendall Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Gary Poff officiating. Military Honors will also be presented at this time by the United States Navy and American Legion Posts 68, 311, and 145. A Masonic service will also be presented on this date by the Giles Masonic Lodge #106 Mr. Knieriem will later be laid to rest in a private ceremony at the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers and in honor of the life of Alfred Knieriem and the work he was so passionate about, the family requests memorial contributions be sent to the Shriners Children’s Hospitals where a gift can transform lives and a child in need can receive hope and healing (donate.lovetotherescue.org). A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Knieriem family.
