Dorthea J. Knisely

Dorthea J. Knisely, 89, of Claysburg, died very peacefully Thursday evening at The Winds in Hollidaysburg where she was a resident. She was born on the home farm in Weyant, PA, the youngest child of the late Archie and Katheryn (Weyandt) Claycomb. On September 8, 1957, she married Robert J. Knisely, and enjoyed 30 years of marriage until his death in May 1988.

Surviving is her sister, Belva Mock; her four children, Kathy (Robert) Hearn, Owen (Cathy) Knisely, Denise (William) Carrigan, and Barbara (Roland) Michelman; 9 grandchildren (Christopher, Daniel, Amanda, James, Michael, Genevieve, Lucas, Lydia and Ava), 10 great-grandchildren (Briana, Kaleb, Marissa, Emma, Madisyn, Macen, Mallory, Skylah, Jerrick and Rayelle); and one great, great granddaughter, Brynleigh. Dorthea was preceded in death by her brothers Owen and Hubert Claycomb, her sister Evelyn Fyock, a special cousin who was raised with them, Sheldon Claycomb, and her grandson Dakota Knisely.

Dorthea was a graduate of Bedford High School, and was a homemaker for many years. Upon her husband’s death, she began working as a housekeeper for various families and continued with this job until her late 70’s. She also worked as an apple picker and strawberry picker seasonally for local growers, and was reportedly one of the best and fastest at these jobs. She was a lifetime member of the Weyant United Methodist Church where she served as the Sunday School Treasurer for many years, was a past member of the Administrative Council, and was very active with the Ladies Aide/United Methodist Women’s group

Dorthea enjoyed her family, and especially all of her grandchildren who held a special place in her heart. She loved to tease them and encourage silliness and fun, and enjoyed making their favorite cookies or cakes when she knew they would be visiting. She had a very independent nature, was spirited and spunky, and will be very greatly missed by all who loved her.

In the past few years, Dorthea was very well taken care of by many wonderful caregivers – in her home, in rehab facilities, and more recently at The Winds where she resided. The family wishes to extend their grateful appreciation to all who were so kind, so caring, and so very attentive to her.

A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 19, at 1:30 pm at the Weyant United Methodist Church, Weyant, PA, with Pastor Calvin Smith officiating. Visitation will be from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, prior to the service. Covid-protocol will be recommended, with masks and social distancing requested.

Interment will be at the Bedford County Memorial Park.

Per Dorthea’s wishes, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Weyant United Methodist Church, to the American Cancer Society or to a charity of your choice.