Paul Daniel Knowlson's Obituary
Paul Daniel Knowlson of Norton Shores, MI passed away peacefully, in the presence of family, on February 2, 2024, at The Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence. He was 84 years of age and was a loving husband, amazing father, and cherished grandfather. He will be greatly missed by all.
Paul was born in Troy, New York to George B. and Frances M. (Herlihy) Knowlson on March 8, 1939. He is preceded in death by his parents; older brother, George Knowlson, Jr.; younger sister, Karen Fallon; and mother-in-law, Helen M. Johnson. He attended Siena College and graduated in 1961 with a B.S Degree in Chemistry. Throughout his career life, Paul exhibited a strong work ethic and was both an innovator and pioneer in the chemical recycling and renewable energy industries. He was the owner of several successful businesses under the CP Recycling, Inc. umbrella. He also sat on the State Board of Indiana to assist in a corn-based bio ethanol initiative. His most recent venture, Biomass Management, Inc., established self-sustainable energy by means of anaerobic digestors and gasification of biomass.
Outside of his career, Paul was a collector of antique cars. He was a member of the National Hot Rod Association and had his prized 1936 Australian Ford Ute featured on the cover of the National Hot Rod Magazine. He enjoyed attending NASCAR races, boating, gardening, making amazing spaghetti, traveling, and spending time with his beloved family. He also had a love for golf, and enjoyed memberships at the Muskegon Country Club, the Pinehurst Country Club (North Carolina), and Grenelefe Country Club (Florida). Paul had a big heart and loved meeting new people, learning new things, and sharing his knowledge and life stories with all.
Paul is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Carol L. Knowlson, and his five children, Shelley (Lisa Brath) Knowlson, Todd Knowlson, Kim (Mark) Albertson, Kristin (Steve) Olzark, and Katelyn “Katie” (Dustin Hammerle; partner) Knowlson. He was known as “Papa K” to six wonderful grandchildren, Brooke Albertson, Brigitte Knowlson, Kael Knowlson, Kirin (PVT Hunter A. Parsons; fiance) Olzark, Brinn Olzark and Claire Olzark. He maintained a great friendship with his former wife, Beverly “Ann” Spier who also survives him.
A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00PM Thursday, February 8, 2024, at The Lee Chapel of Systema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 with Fr. Steve Geerling presiding. A memorial open house will be held immediately following Paul’s service at The Lee Chapel Family Center. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence c/o the Harbor Hospice Foundation.
What’s your fondest memory of Paul?
What’s a lesson you learned from Paul?
Share a story where Paul's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Paul you’ll never forget.
How did Paul make you smile?
