David C. McKnight

McKnight, David C., of Florissant, Missouri, headed off to his next big duck hunt when he passed peacefully on Friday, April 14, 2023 at the age of 85 .

David was born in St Louis, MO on October 14, 1937 to Mildred and Patrick McKnight. He was an exceptional baseball player, particularly on the hot corner at third base. His Ferguson High School team never lost a game the four years he played. In 1955 he signed a contract with the Chicago Cubs and played a season in the minor leagues in Arizona. He coached American Legion teams and his son’s Little League team over the years. He kept in close contact with many of his Ferguson High teammates well into his 80s.

Besides baseball and family, hunting and fishing were his favorite pastimes. His grandfather, Charles Brauss, instilled in him a love of the outdoors, where their many duck hunts were followed by elaborate duck dinners.

David proudly served his country in the National Guard while on active duty during the Berlin Crisis.

He met his future wife, Peggy, while they both worked at Emerson Electric, passing notes to each other via a security guard stationed between their buildings. They married October 10, 1959 at Grace Lutheran Chapel where a tornado passed overhead during their ceremony. David joined Hager Hinge in 1969 and, except for a brief stint back at Emerson in 1977, spent the rest of his career at Hager, retiring in 2001.

David was predeceased by his parents, and his younger brother, Charles T. McKnight. David is survived by his beautiful, loving (and tolerant) wife of 63 years, Peggy; his daughter, Robin (Michael) Thompson of Syracuse, NY; his son and favorite hunting buddy, Jeff (Karen Fishback) of St. Charles; four grandchildren, Matt and Collin (Sierra) Thompson, and Raechel and Rhys McKnight; former daughter-in-law Dr. Rhiannon McKnight; one great-granddaughter, Violet Thompson. David is also survived by his nephews, Craig and Kevin McKnight, who, along with his son, Jeff, provided the passion, shenanigans and family bonding that happened in the duck blind. They also helped David go on as many hunting trips as possible in his later years. We’re confident the many dogs he loved in his life were waiting for him at the Rainbow Bridge.

David’s family would like to express their immense appreciation to all the caring and compassionate staff at St Luke’s Hospital on the 9600 unit. Dad, we know you, Charlie and Gramp are already on your next duck hunt, and Aunt will be waiting to hear all of the stories when you get home.

Memorial contributions may be made in David’s memory to the American Heart Association, or the charity of your choice.

Services: The family is being served by The Baue Funeral and Memorial Center, 3950 West Clay Street, St. Charles, MO. Friends may greet the family on Friday, April 21, 2023 at 9:00 am, immediately followed by a memorial service at 10:00 am with full military honors. Interment will be at Jefferson Barracks.