Raymond O. Knisley

Raymond O. Knisley, Jr, 86 of Chiefland passed away July 15, 2011 at the Malcom T. Randall Veterans Hospital in Gainesville. Born in Boston, MA, to Raymond O. and Mildred Knisley, he moved to Chiefland 7 years ago from West Palm Beach, where he lived for 20 years. Mr. Knisley was a member of the Church of Christ of Chiefland . He proudly served his country in the US Army during WWII and was a POW. He was a lifetime member of the VFW, member of the Bronson American Legion, and American Ex POW`s. He was also a member of Chapter 3 Rolling Thunder in Gainesville. During his life he was a carpenter, police officer and volunteered as a National Service Officer at the VA Hospital in West Palm Beach.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Margery Knisley of Chiefland, daughters Kathleen Jenkerson of Chiefland, Janet Knisley of New Mexico, and Laurie (Rick) Sleeper of West Townsend, MA, sons Raymond O. (Pam) Knisley,III of Chiefland and Paul (Diane) Knisley of New Ipswich, brother Ruben Knisley of Sanbornville, NH and his 10 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Lowell Knisley.
A memorial service is planned for Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 6:00 PM at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services in Chiefland.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to American Ex-Prisoners of War, National Headquarters, 3201 East Pioneer Parkway Suite 40, Arlington, TX 76010 Phone 817-649-2979 Website www.axpow.org

Arrangements are under the care of Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, 1301 N. Young Blvd., Chiefland, FL 32626, 352-493-0050. On line condolences may be sent through our website at www.hiers-baxley.com