Gerald A McKnight, age 78 of Portland Oregon, passed away peacefully on March 14,2020 surrounded by his loving family due to COPD. He was born on March 29,1941 in Greensburg, Pa to Elizabeth (Kittelberger) and Regis A. McKnight.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years Barbara (Mattock), his three children, Scott and Janet (Sherwood) McKnight, Jennifer McKnight, Kelly and Alan Balderson, five grand-children Elizabeth and Bradley McKnight, Sawyer, Seth and Cael Balderson.
He is also survived by his brother Barry D McKnight of Pittsburgh, Pa. and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Basketball was instrumental in Jerry’s life playing an integral part in his championship Indiana Highschool team which won him a scholarship to Carnegie Mellon University.
Following CMU and 4years in the Airforce, mostly in Alaska, he returned to Indiana University of Pennsylvania and earned his degree in Chemistry.
Jerry started working in the paint and finishes industry, initially in New Jersey. He then moved to Portland Oregon, back to New Jersey and then to North Carolina and finally settling in Portland again for the remainder of his life. Jerry was known throughout the paint industry as Shining Star and managed the production plant and lab for Rodda Paint Company, Portland, Oregon.
Jerry’s real love was for the great Northwest outdoors, camping, hunting, fishing and enjoying all with his entire family. Jerry and Barbara spent retirement travelling in their R.V. throughout the U.S. and spent many winters in Palm Springs.
A memorial service will be held at a future date in Portland, Oregon. Memorial contributions: Mt. Hood Hospice P.O. Box 1269 Sandy Oregon, 97055
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