David F. Knight's Obituary
David Francis Knight, age 75, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026, in Holland, Michigan. He was born January 12, 1951, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Frank and Patricia (Meiners) Knight.
David graduated from Bishop Dwenger High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Francis. He later completed the Physician Assistant program at Western Michigan University, beginning a long and fulfilling career as an orthopedic physician assistant. A lifelong learner with a deep curiosity, David pursued further education at Cooley Law School, where he earned his law degree.
In 1994, he married Katherine “Kate” James, and together they shared 32 wonderful years of marriage filled with love and companionship.
David was a devoted family man who took great pride in his children and grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them. He deeply valued his parents and siblings and the important roles they played throughout his life. He encouraged those close to him to strive for their best while offering unwavering support. A natural teacher, David especially loved sharing his knowledge with his grandchildren, often teaching them about the beauty and wonders of nature.
He had a meticulous eye and found great joy in creating and maintaining beautiful surroundings, particularly in his yard and garden. David was also highly musical, and his beautiful voice will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
David is lovingly remembered by his wife, Kate Knight; his children, Gina Schmitt, Daniel James, and Emily (Christopher) Carroll; his especially close niece, Taylor (Tyler Jankun) Dale; his grandchildren, Aiden Schmitt and Miles, Tucker, Chip, and Lydia Carroll; his siblings, Kathleen Weller, Kevin (Lisa) Knight, and Jo (Tom) Barnhill; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Patricia Knight; his first wife, Laura Knight; his granddaughter, Sloane Carroll; his sister, Mary Ann (Bobby) Williams; and his brother-in-law, Steve Weller.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, April 13, 2026, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey Street, Norton Shores, Michigan, with visitation beginning one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Emmanuel Hospice.
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