It is with heavy hearts but many fond memories that we announce the passing of Preston “Prep” Knowles on Monday September 22, 2025, at Chaleur Regional Hospital at the age of 81, or as Prep would say, “eleven-teen”.
Preston was born to the late Morris and the late Mary (Scott) Knowles, “back when Adam was a cowboy”. He was raised by his maternal grandparents George (Gramp) and Georgina (Nan) Scott following the death of his mother in 1950.
From a young age he displayed a deep sense of loyalty and dedication. Whether it was for his family, friends or colleagues, he always went above and beyond to ensure that his responsibilities were carried out to the best of his ability.
Preston’s journey through life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his family, his love for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays and his remarkable ability to bring laughter and chaos into every room he entered.
One of Preston’s favorite places to spend quality time was at his camp, sharing a meal and a game of cards with his children, his grandchildren and anyone else who happened to drop by.
Preston is survived by his wife of 57 years, Elaine (Riordon) Knowles, one daughter Kathy (Blair) and a son Kirk (Chantal), grandchildren Corey, Meagan (Austin), Ryland, Jonathan, Landon and Maddie who brought the sparkle to his eye.
He is also survived by four sisters, Wanda Ellis (late Syd Smith), Darlene Weichel (late Ross), Debbie Henry (Jim) and Diane Ellis (Stephen); one brother Laurie Knowles (Dora Mae), one uncle Milton “Mick” Knowles (Helen) and one aunt, Eleanor Scott, brothers-in-law Danny Riordon (Ellen), Marc Cormier (late Alma) and sisters-in-law Sandra Riordon (late Ray), Dianne Riordon (late Frank), Viola Riordon (late David) and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and grandparents, Preston was predeceased by his siblings Brian (late Maritta), Beryl Thomas (late Jim), Harry (Kim), his brother-in-law Terry Riordon, sister-in-law Coleen Riordon, and son-in-law Stacy Ellis.
Preston’s family would like to express their sincerest thanks to the nurses and staff of 2nd West and the oncology department of Chaleur Regional Hospital for the care they provided to him over the past year.
Rest in peace Dad/Grampy. You will be dearly missed but your legacy of love, laughter and dedication will live on in those who love you.
There will be no visitation at the funeral home. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Central United Church in Clifton NB, with reception to follow.
Donations can be made to the “Toronto Maple Leaf Stanley Cup Parade Fund” (haha) or seriously, to a charity of the donor’s choice (as long as it’s not the Montreal Canadien’s Stanley Cup Parade Fund!)
Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton’s Funeral Home (www.elhatton.com), Bathurst.
