Posted: Fri 9:14 AM, Dec 28, 2012
Funeral Home: Callaway-Jones Funeral Home
June 22, 1950 – December 25, 2012
Darrell Albert Knabe, 62, of Bryan, stepped peacefully into heaven on Tuesday, December 25, 2012 at home with his loving family. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, December 27, 2012 at Callaway-Jones Funeral Home. The Celebration of Life Service will begin at 2 p.m. Friday, December 28 at the funeral home. Private interment will follow at Steep Hollow Cemetery.
Darrell was born in Hereford, TX to Adolph and Beatrice Knabe on June 22, 1950. At the age of 14, he left home to attend Maryknoll Junior Seminary, Chesterfield, Missouri to seek service for the Lord, graduating in 1968. Pursuing his love of education, he went on to earn a Bachelors of Science in Agriculture from West Texas State University, 1971. He continued his education obtaining the Masters of Science and Ph.D. in Animal Science from Texas A&M University.
In 1976, the Bicentennial Year, he and Karen were married in Bryan, TX. He spent the next two years in Abilene, TX employed at ACCO Feeds as a swine nutritionist. In 1978, he returned to Texas A&M as an assistant professor of Animal Science, attaining full professor in 1991. Over a thirty-four year career, he contributed to the education of thousands of Aggies and the advancement of his field. He received the Distinguished Teaching Award from the Association of Former Students and twice received the Outstanding Professor Award from Texas A&M University Collegiate Chapter of FFA.
He was a loving father, husband, and faithful Christian. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Karen, and his children and their spouses: Angie and William Fleming, Stephen and Kari, Kevin and Marvin, and Jeff and Julie, and grandchildren Jacob, Cadence & Trinity Fleming, Landon & Greyson Knabe, and Logan Fleming who is due February 14th; also, by his brothers and their families: Dwaine and Ellie, Weldon and Mary Kay, Adolph and Linda, and Raymond and Sherry.
Darrell spoke most clearly through his actions. His life was a testament to his love for his wife, family, hard work, and Christian values. He had a rich sense of humor and loved working with students, children, gardening and the outdoors. He enjoyed life and could play as hard as a child. He faithfully served at Steep Hollow and Hillcrest Baptist Churches.
Darrell is preceded in death by his father and mother, Adolph and Beatrice, of Hereford, TX.
Memorial donations may be made to Hospice Brazos Valley (special thanks to Sandra and Sam), Texas A&M University Animal Science Department or Hillcrest Baptist Church, Bryan, TX. Condolences may be left in Darrell's online guestbook at www.CallawayJones.com.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to all the friends, family, co-workers, and former students who have helped throughout Dad's illness.
Could there be a better day to wake up in Jesus' arms than Christmas.
