Ronald Anthony Knisel

KNISEL – Ronald A., 63, Summerhill, passed away October 17, 2025, at home. Born January 25, 1962, in Johnstown. Preceded in death by parents, Walter J. and Mary Jane (Werfel) Knisel; and twin infant sisters, Mary Jean and Mary Joan.

Survived by brother, Joseph; and sisters, Mary Ann Adams (Woody), Rose Marie Penatzer, Karen Beyer (Timothy), and Rita Mae Mason; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ronnie graduated from Greater Johnstown Area Vo-Tech, class of 1980 with a diploma and certification in tool and die technology. Following a long career as a master machinist, he was once asked what equipment he could operate, he replied, “does it have a plug?” He put his heart and soul into his work and was especially proud of creating and manufacturing a torpedo programming machine for the Virginia shipyard as part of a 2-man team. He enjoyed spending time with his cousins and going to camp with his buddies where he was a member of the “Rut n Buck.” He loved being outdoors, riding motorcycles, and helping friends. He was affectionately known as “Dough Boy” by the St. Anne Society kitchen crew at St. Bartholomew. And we will always treasure the memories, laughter, and camaraderie that came from working together as a family on the many, many projects Mom led on the homestead, Stoney Acres. Ronnie truly lived the lesson Mom taught us all: in unity, there is strength!

Friends will be received from 3 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork. 

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, Wilmore; Father Joseph C. Nale, celebrant. 

Committal, St. Bartholomew Cemetery.

Special thanks to Dr. Kelly Warshel and her “Angels of Mercy.” The tender care and loving support of Arlene, Jake, Claudine, Danielle, Dave, Anita, Nick, Kelly, Tiffany, his favorite, Abbi, and all the staff of Windber Hospice (CSSWMC) will be remembered forever.