William Lane Knox

William Lane Knox

Mt. Pleasant

William Lane Knox, 94, of Mt. Pleasant, died peacefully with his family at his side on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at his residence.

William ‘Bill” Knox was born August 21, 1929 in Moline, Illinois to Esther(Terry) and Earl Knox. He grew up on a farm near Joy, Illinois the youngest of three boys. His family moved to Aledo, Illinois where he graduated from high school. One of his biggest joys was attending Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa, earning his way by being a busboy throughout high-school.

Bill married Marilyn Wakeland on August 4, 1951 and then worked for Contel Telephone Company, retiring in 1992.

Bill was a member of Community of Christ church and was ordained as an elder, becoming a much beloved pastor of several congregations. Camping and volunteering at Camp Nauvoo at Nauvoo, Illinois was his passion and he was a longtime member of Camp Nauvoo Board.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years and three children, Debbie Batey (Todd), Kevin (Cindy), Kelly Manning (Jack), his son-in-law, Bret McFarlin (Teva), seven grandsons and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents, two brothers and his dear daughter, Kathleen McFarlin.

A service will be held in the spring at Camp Nauvoo.

A memorial has been established for Outreach International and Camp Nauvoo and may be sent to Kimzey Funeral Home at 213 N. Main Street, Mt. Pleasant, IA 52641, who is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be directed to www.kimzeyfh.com.

We thank many friends and family and especially Everystep Hospice who lovingly cared for him and his family.