Ralph George Knoettner, 90, of Bedford died July 2, 2011 at the Courville at Manchester after a period of declining health.
He was born in Somerville, MA on March 2nd, 1921, the son of Phillip L. and Clara (Schwotzer) Knoettner. He graduated from Manchester High School West and attended the New Hampshire Institute of Art for post-secondary education and training.
During WWII, he served in the US Army and earned numerous citations, including the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal.
Ralph was best known for his art work that can be found throughout the Southern NH area, in murals, paintings, and design.
After arriving home from the service, he worked for Herbert Paul Painting, first as a painter and later as a foreman. In 1956, he opened the “Decorative Arts”, a home design business. From this retail facility he later formulated a home design and decorating business known as Knoettner Interiors. His son Kurt joined the business and together they worked until Ralph’s retirement. Family and Art were his first loves. In later years he enjoyed traveling throughout Europe with his wife.
His wife Romie (Buren) Knoettner died in 2002.
Family members include his son, Kurt John Knoettner and his wife Marguerite (Peggy) Clark Knoettner of Bedford; his grandchildren, Kevin Jay Knoettner and his wife Jennifer Ziter Knoettner of Bedford, Kristin Jill Sullivan and her husband Sean Patrick Sullivan of Medford, MA; his great-grandchildren, Hunter James Knoettner of Bedford, Joshua Gunner Knoettner of Bedford, and Kevynn Ashley Knoettner of Bedford, Clara Grace Sullivan of Medford, MA.
The funeral liturgy took place on Thursday, July 7, 2011 in the funeral home chapel. Burial followed in Bedford Center Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 5 Bedford Farms Drive, Suite 201,Bedford 03110.