Jerry Lynn Knaust, 63, of Jopljn, Missouri, died peacefully August 13, 2022, in Tennessee after a valiant fight with cancer. His mother, Janet Backs Knaust and sister Shirley McGrew were with him throughout. During the entire course of his treatments Jerry was unfailingly courageous, kind and polite to his medical and hospice teams, friends, family and beloved Australian Shepherd pup, Hailey.

He is also survived by his sister Sheryl (Luddy)Koelker; brother Merlin Knaust; nieces and nephews: Brooke Knaust, Karl Koelker, Kris (Ashley)Koelker and their children Blakely and Beckham; Kyle (Elecia)Koelker.
His father, Elfred H. Knaust predeceased him.

Jerry, who never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand, delighted in nature and just being outside-whether to bike around the neighborhood, chat with friends, walk his dog, fish, visit the country especially his Uncle Erhard’s, or watch baseball games.
He was, as his father before him, a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan.

Devoted to the care of his dog and cat, Jerry reserved a special place in his heart for all animals.
He loved the nostalgia of antique and flea markets and the simpler more innocent times depicted in his favorite reruns of Andy Griffith, old westerns and Elvis lyrics.

All who knew Jerry will miss his gentle soul and kind heart.

Visitation 6-8 pm, Friday, August 19, at Parker Mortuary, 1502 Joplin Avenue, Jopljn, MO.
Funeral service at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 20, at St. John’s Cemetery, 1400 E Roxbury Dr., Monett, MO.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Joplin Humane Society, 140 E Emperor Lane, Joplin, MO, 64801.