Frederick Paul “Fred” Knittel, 78, of Pine Grove, California, passed away on February 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on August 10, 1947, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cecilia and John Knittel. He grew up alongside his older sister, Annie; older brother, John; and younger brother,

Robert.

Fred is survived by his wife, Lori (Siegel) Knittel, and his seven children:

Jeff (Keri), Monique (Daryl), Josh (Natalie), Julie, Greg (Shelly), Tim (Mariela), and Ted (Morgan);

as well as his stepsons, Cameron, Noah, Evan, and Cody Bustos.

He is also survived by 21 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a constant source of pride and joy in his life.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Bobette (Blair) Knittel.

Fred grew up on the rural outskirts of Pittsburgh, where he developed a lifelong love of the outdoors. He later joined the United States Navy, serving as a Seabee and being stationed in California. After returning from service in Vietnam, he married Bobette, beginning a life together rooted in faith, family, and hard work.

Fred was a self-employed contractor, specializing in painting and wallpaper hanging. Through dedication, perseverance, and strong faith, he and Bobette raised their seven children and built a home centered on service, belief, and love.

Fred was his children’s—and later his grandchildren’s—biggest fan, rarely missing a sporting event. He was an avid fly fisherman with a deep love for the Eastern Sierra, where he found peace, joy, and a profound connection to nature. A history buff, he delighted in sharing facts and challenging anyone brave enough to face him in a game of Jeopardy. Fred laughed hardest at his own jokes and had a gift for making everyone around him feel welcome and truly known.

After his first wife passed away from cancer, Fred found love again with Lori, his “Ellie.” Together, Fred and Lori cherished time at their cabin in Pine Grove, where they enjoyed feeding the deer and turkeys, investing deeply in their grandchildren, and sharing a quiet life close to the land they loved.

Fred remained active in his faith community at St. Katharine Drexel Parish and was proud to support fellow veterans through organizations including the American Legion, VFW and DAV.

Fred will be remembered for his unwavering love for family, his generosity of spirit, his deep faith, his curiosity and humor, and his lifelong commitment to those he loved.