Edward I. Knowles Obituary
Though a native of New York City, Edward I. Knowles ’50 lived most of his 100 years, and all of his retirement, in Hialeah, Florida, where he passed away June 14, 2024. Ed, known to generations of family and friends as “Diddy,” loved most aspects of life in Southeast Florida — the weather, the fishing, mango and avocado trees, and the chance to gather with friends and siblings at vacations and family reunions all over the state. Ed was born in New York on June 2, 1924. After his family relocated to Miami, local fishing replaced trips with his dad on Long Island Sound. After graduating from Miami’s Edison High School, Ed enlisted in the U.S. Navy as an aviator. Following service in WWII, Ed enrolled in the University of Wisconsin, where he met his wife, Diana, a fellow-student, and where he earned a degree in business administration.
Ed and Diana raised their four children in Florida, Georgia, Connecticut, South Carolina, and Indiana, as Ed progressed through a 60-year career as a textiles executive that his customers remember for his interest in all aspects of design and customer service.
Ed Knowles is survived by an extensive family who cherish his memory as an involved, caring uncle, father, and grandfather. He is survived by daughters, Deborah Hickman (Walt), Bridget Rooney (Rick), and Jenni Knowles; and son, Michael Knowles; and grandchildren, Sarah and Ren Rooney (Kristen).
The original “people person,” Ed Knowles loved his family, friends, neighbors, and customers, and they loved him back. May he rest in peace.
