Daniel Ross Knowles

In Loving Memory of Daniel Ross Knowles April 9, 1940 – April 1, 2026 With heavy hearts, the family of Daniel Ross Knowles announces his peaceful passing on April 1, 2026. Born on April 9, 1940, in Omaha, Nebraska, Daniel—affectionately known as Danny—left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey through life was one filled with love, adventure, and unwavering dedication to family and friends. Danny’s early years were spent traversing various cities due to his father Ross’s involvement in amateur hockey. From Hershey, Pennsylvania, to Fort Worth, Texas, and beyond, Danny's life was one of movement and exploration until finally settling in Fort William. It was here that Danny attended Selkirk High School, where he quarterbacked the senior football team to victory in the city championship. It was also at Selkirk that he met the love of his life, Betty Forsyth, a spirited cheerleader who would become his lifelong partner. Danny and Betty were married on February 22, 1958, and shared 68 wonderful years together, raising two children, Nancy and Chris. In 1957, Danny began his professional journey at Great Lakes Paper Co., starting as a sixth hand on the paper machines. Through hard work and dedication, he climbed the ranks to become a boss machine tender, a position he held until his retirement after 40 years of service. A staunch advocate for workers' rights, Danny was actively involved with the papermakers' local union 257, serving in numerous capacities over the years. Danny's life was rich with hobbies and interests. As a young man, he excelled in sports, playing quarterback and defense for the Westfort Ukes and hardball for the Westfort Albions. In the 1970s, he discovered his passion for curling at the Fort William Curling Club, competing in numerous club championships and bonspiels with great success. Beyond sports, Danny had a profound love for the outdoors, spending countless hours fishing and hunting. His camp in Nipigon was his sanctuary, a place where he forged lifelong friendships with Wayne Wilson, Victor Baskin, and his son-in-law, Greg, during their annual moose hunting trips. Danny was a man of many talents, teaching himself watercolor painting, crafting fly fishing lures, and building intricate model ships. His creativity extended to making bird spinners and his renowned outdoor popcorn poppers, which delighted family and friends over many campfires. In his later years, Danny found joy in an unexpected "acting career," portraying patients for medical students at the Lakehead University School for Medicine. His portrayal of various illnesses provided invaluable learning experiences for future doctors. Danny's legacy lives on in his loving wife and best fishing partner, Betty, and their children, Nancy (Greg) and Chris (Dianna). He was a proud grandfather to Jason Corbett (Jamie), Diana Kraag (Travis), and Zachary Knowles, and a cherished great-grandfather to Hannah, Jude, Zoey, and Bowen. He is also survived by his brother, Jim (Jackie), with whom he shared a lifelong bond. Danny's family extends their deepest gratitude to all who enriched his life with friendship and love. Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of his remarkable life will be held at a later date. Interment will occur in due course, offering a moment for family and friends to honor and remember Danny’s incredible journey. Danny Ross Knowles was a man who lived his life fully, embracing every moment with warmth, humor, and kindness. His legacy of love and dedication will forever inspire those who knew him.