Lee Roy Knitter

Lee R. Knitter, 79, of St. Joseph, passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2020, at his home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Southwest Michigan. Those wishing to leave a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Lee was born on August 21, 1940, to Elmer & Evelyn (Kempton) Knitter in Benton Harbor. He graduated from New Troy High School and then continued perfecting his craft of carpentry at trade schools. On May 31, 1983, Lee married the love of his life Nicke Statler at Little Chapel of the West in Las Vegas, NV. Lee worked as a carpenter and teacher, where he would teach others carpentry skills at apprentice schools. After retirement, he worked for St. Joseph Township where he enjoyed taking care of the local city parks. Lee was an avid sports fan and enjoyed cheering on the University of Michigan, Detroit Lions, Detroit Tigers and Red Wings. Lee also had a passion for playing golf, but most of all, Lee loved to spend his time with his family. Lee is survived by his wife of 37 years Nicke Knitter of St. Joseph; children, Kevin (Kris) Knitter of DeWitt, Brian Knitter of Lansing and Jeff Knitter of AZ; step-daughters, Shannon Harris Murphy of St. Joseph and Heather (Hocine) Harris Benchouk of Paris, France; grandchildren, Allix, Sydney, Ryan, Nyla and Laith; and brother Gene (Kim) Knitter of Richmond, VA. Lee was preceded in death by his parents Elmer & Evelyn Knitter.