Paul W. "Peanuts" Knecht, 87, of Fullerton, died peacefully July 9, 2014, in Cedarbrook, South Whitehall.

Born in Schoenersville, he was a son of the late Grover and Arabella (Woodring) Knecht,

He and his wife Claire E. (Brosious) Knecht were married for 63 years at the time of her death on April 25.

A member of St John's United Church of Christ, Fullerton, he previously served as a deacon and elder.

After graduating from Catasauqua High School in 1945, he honorably served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, earning two Bronze Stars.

He returned home to become a longtime trustee of Fullerton American Legion Post 367, and was a mainstay with the post's funeral honor guard.

A member of Porter Lodge 287 F&AM, he served as chaplain and steward in earlier years.

A lifetime member and former firefighter with Fullerton Fire Co. No. 1, he was the 2014 honoree by the Fullerton Memorial Park Association for his patriotism and support of the community.

Loved and adored by his neighbors, he was fondly known as the "Mayor of Catty Road."

An avid hunter, he loved his garden and sharing the fruits of his labor with everyone.

His survivors include daughters Jade L. Krim and her husband, Daniel, of Bethlehem, and Ellen C. Taylor of Idaho; son Kris H. Knecht and his wife, Donna, of New Tripoli; two granddaughters; three grandsons; two great-granddaughters; two great-grandsons; and nieces, nephews and their families.

He predeceased by infant daughter, Charlotte, and brothers Harry, Joseph, Elwood and Leroy.

Contributions may be made to the church endowment fund, 575 Grape St. Whitehall, PA 18052.

Arrangements were made by Gilbert Funeral Home, Whitehall.