Friends, family, and members of the Berlin, Petersburgh and Grafton communities gathered at the Petersburgh Memorial Hall on Sunday, August 23 to honor a couple that has served them for 40 years.
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Walter and Carol Knightes moved to Berlin in 1973, with Walter starting out as a science teacher in the Berlin School District. He also served as the long time wrestling coach for the Mountaineers. Carol, also an educator, became a special education instructor at the Mount Anthony Middle School in Bennington, VT. Educating children, however, was not the Knightes’ only passion.
They spent four years as missionaries in Venezuela. Upon their return, they resumed their careers in education, but also answered to a higher calling. The Mountain Chapel in Grafton had just seen their pastor relocate to Fort Edward. Walter was called upon to fill for a few weeks. The weeks turned to months and then years, with Walter retiring earlier this month after 21 years behind the pulpit. Twenty years ago as well, the Petersburgh Fire Department had a need for a chaplain. Again, Walter was there to fill the need, continuing in this role as well until he recently stepped down.
Educator, pastor, chaplain and coach are quite enough to keep any man busy. But Walter also answered the call to public service, serving as Berlin Town Justice from 2000 to 2009. And through all of this, as Walter is quick to point out, his wife Carol was walking with him at his side.
Sunday was a time for all those whose lives the Knightes have touched to say a heartfelt thanks, and wish them well as they move to Florida in September to care for Carol’s ailing parents. Commenting on moments that stood out in their 40 years in the community, they said that there were too many to point to any singular moments, except perhaps when their house burned down in 2010. They described the outpouring of support and encouragement as overwhelming.
The Knightes say they will begin the next phase of their life together cherishing memories of their community and most of all the people who live here, but perhaps not as much as those left behind will cherish their memories of Walter and Carol Knightes.[/private]