Remembering Tony Knight
Tony Knight was known as “The Father of Modern Muzzleloading”, but he was more than that, he was a great father, my father – the best father a boy could wish for. He is responsible for my love of the outdoors – a gift only few truly understand. He helped make me who I am, for which I am eternally grateful.
It’s funny what a person remembers when someone so important is gone. I remember all the hugs a kisses he gave me as a child and the coarse feel of his cheek on mine when he didn’t shave. I remember he was stern when I deserved it and soft when I needed comfort. Most of all, I knew my dad loved me throughout my life, even when I may have disappointed him. That love carried me through every challenge I have ever faced.
Tony Knight was a man I still hope to be someday. The most generous man I know. My dad made friends wherever he went-- many of which became my friends as well. You may think my father’s greatest accomplishment was the “Knight Rifle” – it was not….his greatest accomplishment was being a dad beyond measure. The only thing my dad did better was being a grandfather – “Papa Tony” loved his grandchildren more than anything and he made that very apparent.
I remember my dad taking me hunting as a child…one year we had deep snow. My dad told me to step in his footsteps so I could keep up…I could barely do that - my legs were too short. Now as an adult my legs are longer but I find I am still struggling to follow in his footsteps…How do you follow in the footsteps of a man who has taken such strides? My family and I will miss my dad immensely – our hearts will ache long after today… but God did not put such a special man on this earth without a plan for the loved ones he leaves behind. My family and I thank each and every one of you for all your sympathy, warm wishes and prayers as we are forced to say good bye to the finest man I will ever know.
--Bill
Knight,
Centerville, Iowa
William Anthony "Tony" Knight, 67, of Plano, Iowa passed away Monday, March 18, 2013 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines.
Tony was born in Kirksville, Missouri to William Thomas "Tom" & Martha "Ruth" (Martin) Knight on December 21, 1945. He was a veteran of the United States Army, serving during the Vietnam War. Tony married Rose Wright on September 17, 1967 in Queen City, Missouri.
In 1985, Tony invented and went on to patent and manufacture his modernized version of the muzzleloader, known world-wide as the Knight Rifle. This endeavor would eventually earn him distinction as "the father of in-line muzzleloading".
Tony is survived by his wife; Rose Knight of Plano, two children: Bill (Cyndee) Knight of Centerville, Michelle (Patrick) Robinson of Pella, four grandchildren, who were his greatest joy: Anthony, Grace and Gavin Knight of Centerville, Jack Robinson of Pella, brother; John (Patty) Knight of East Peoria, Illinois, sister; Bea (Jim) Hamilton of Kirksville, Missouri and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Tony was preceded in death by his parents. Memorials may be given to the Appanoose County Conservation Foundation, which may be left or mailed to Thomas Funeral Home – 23548 Hwy 5 – PO Box 125 – Centerville, IA 52544.
Copyright 2013 by Randy Wakeman. All Rights Reserved.
