Marilyn Knauer

Marilyn Gillette Knauer passed away at 87 in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA on November 21, 2023 with family by her side. Marilyn spoke fondly of her Norman Rockwell-like upbringing as the third of four children born in her Williamsport, Pennsylvania home to parents Barbara and Phil Gillette. She shared many fond memories with her older brother, Gordon, and sisters, Joan and Carol. Marilyn grew up with a rosy outlook and a positive approach to life. She was a high school foreign exchange student in Paris, France where she spoke French fluently and fostered her love of travel. After high school, she attended Lycoming College in Williamsport, earning a BA in Early Education. She was the first female at the college to be named “Athlete of the Year”. During those years, Marilyn was a stunning May Queen and developed her life-long love of competitive tennis and Bridge. She married her first husband, Earl Elliott Schiring, at the Methodist Church in Williamsport where she was active.

Marilyn taught K-3rd grade for a few years before she and Earl moved to Rancho Palos Verdes, California to begin Earl’s NASA engineering career. She and Earl raised their 3 children, Suzette, Barbra, and Gordon, amidst a busy life of tennis, Bridge, camping trips, La Primera activities, to name just a few. They were amazing party hosts of their Hillbilly Country Music and 4th of July parties. In the years following her divorce, she taught her children how to persevere and find faith. Marilyn began a second career and worked 20 years as a Data Manager for Garrett Air Research. When not working, she played and assisted in Tennis Tours events, attended South End Water Aerobics, Red Hat Ladies, and St. Peter’s by the Sea Church on Sundays.

Marilyn found love again and married her second engineer husband, David (Dave) Knauer, adding children Chuck and Cindy through marriage. Marilyn and Dave have 8 adored grandchildren who call her “Moomie”. Marilyn traveled the world with Dave for 36 years of marriage. People will remember Marilyn as vivacious, smart, fun, and a friend to all. She could ‘school’ most in tennis or Bridge with a playful smile and a sparkle in her eyes. She had a warm, beautiful smile and used to say to her children, “If you want friends, be a friend to someone in need”, and “Let go, and let God.” She loved well and was deeply loved in return. She is survived by her younger sister Carol, 5 children and their spouses, and 8 grandchildren.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Marilyn’s life is planned for 10:00 am on Sunday, January 7 at Green Hills Mortuary Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA followed by her interment. All guests are invited to wear a pink accent, if they wish, in honor of Marilyn’s rosy personality and outlook. If you wish to make a donation in honor of Marilyn’s long-term illness, please consider THE MICHAEL J. FOX FOUNDATION or Parkinson’s Foundation.