Harlin H. Knecht
Harlin H. Knecht, 81, of Sioux Falls, SD, formerly Aberdeen, SD, passed away Friday, November 3, 2023, at Dow Rummel Village in Sioux Falls, SD.
Harlin Harry Knecht was born the 3rd child to Gust and Melinda (Beitelspacher) Knecht on September 26, 1942, in Bowdle, SD. He grew up on a farm and learned the farming trade at a young age. He learned how to fix farm machinery early in his life. He ventured into road construction with his brother, Duane, when he was 17. He worked for various construction companies until he landed with Dahme Construction in Aberdeen, where he worked for 41 years in various capacities.
Harlin married Carol Dewald on October 16, 1965. They had three children - Randy, Rhonda, and Rick. Harlin and Carol have nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, with another to be born in April 2024.
Harlin was a skilled blade operator excelling in finish blade work. He was also a heavy equipment mechanic. If a part was not available, Harlin often just made the part himself. Around the house, he had an incredible gift - he built, repaired, and maintained everything himself. There was no such thing as calling for a builder or repairman. His favorite pastime was building furniture. He made many bedstands, benches, and luggage holders. He also made several TV stands. In his younger years, he enjoyed golf and was pretty good at it. He loved the outdoors and thoroughly enjoyed mowing the grass and tending to his flowers. He planted a large garden at their first house in Aberdeen, which he took great pride in meticulously maintaining.
Harlin was a devoted family man and loved spending time together for the holidays. He was gentle and kind and strived to please everyone in a quiet way. We will truly miss his smiling face!
Survivors include his wife, Carol Knecht; children, Randy (Tamara) Knecht, Rhonda (Dan) Lind, and Rick (Jennifer) Knecht; nine grandchildren: Kaytlin (Dillon) Zdroik, Samantha (Matthew) Young, Kelsey Knecht, Ricky (Delaney) Knecht, Alyssa Lind, Connor Knecht, Evan Lind, Dylan Knecht, and Gavin Knecht; three great-grandchildren: Adalynn, Shiloh, and Charlotte; siblings, Jeanette Duenwald, Clifford (Sharon) Knecht, Sally Perman, and Pam (Al) Dahme; and many cousins.
Harlin was preceded in death by his parents; brother Duane Knecht; grandparents; and all of his uncles and aunts.