Adam "Sonny" J. Knelly

Adam "Sonny" J. Knelly, 78, of Sugarloaf, passed away Wednesday evening, May 3, 2023, at his residence in Sugarloaf, following a short illness, surrounded by his loving family. 

 Born in Hazleton, April 14, 1945, he was the son of the late Adam and Mildred (Christy) Knelly and spent the past 41 years in Sugarloaf, after moving from Hazleton. 

 Sonny was a foreman for F&L Doors, Hazleton for 39 years. He was a US Navy veteran during the Vietnam Conflict having served from 1966 to 1968. He was a member of Good Shepherd Roman Catholic Church, Drums.  Sonny took great pride in taking care of his home and yard.  His greatest joy was his family, especially his youngest granddaughter Gracelyn. He was extremely knowledgeable and handy; and was happy to guide and assist others whenever they needed help. 

 He was preceded in death, in addition to his parents, by his loving wife, the former Marie Dennish who passed away April 3, 2010. 

 Surviving are three children, Jeffrey Knelly and wife Denise, Carmella Pretti and husband Richard "Butch"; and Maria Demshock and husband Doug, all of Sugarloaf; three grandchildren, Kendra Allen and husband Chris, Lewisberry; Jordan McDonald and husband Daniel Maguschak, St. John's; and Gracelyn Lee, Sugarloaf; four siblings, Dolores Carsia, Hazleton; Patricia Watahovich and husband Michael, Conyngham; Roger Broadt, Bloomsburg; Rosemary Jackson and husband Carl, Jacksonville, FL; sister-in-law, Ann Cameron and husband Anthony, brother-in-law, John Dennish and wife Jane, all of Sugarloaf; and many nieces and nephews. 

 His funeral will be celebrated with a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, May 8, 2023, at 10 AM in Good Shepherd RC Church, 87 S. Hunter Hwy., Drums. Burial will follow in Calvary RC Cemetery, Drums. Friends may call at the church on Monday morning from 9 AM until the time of the Mass.  Harman Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc. (East), 669 W. Butler Drive, is assisting the family with the arrangements.

 Online condolences can be entered, and more information is available at www.harmanfuneral.com.

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