Cayrol Loraine “Kay” Knizley was born February 6, 1918 at 7:30 p.m. at Tarkio, Missouri. He was the fifth child of William Perry and Lydia Magdalina (W.P. and Maggie) Knizley. Two more boys followed William (Bill) and Fred – making a total of seven children in the family as follows: Davida, Ivoree, Mandy, Ed, Kay, Bill, and Fred. Fred is the only sibling surviving him.

Kay attended local schools and helped his Dad on the farm. He enlisted in the U.S. Army November 3, 1938 at Fort Cook, Nebraska. He was discharged as a Sergeant November 3, 1941. On March 12, 1942 he re-enlisted and participated in battles at Normandy, in Northern France, and in several German campaigns. He was awarded three bronze stars. On November 15, 1944 he was wounded in the vicinity of Distroff, France and was awarded the Purple Heart. He was discharged May 23. 1945.

Soon after leaving the Army, Kay quickly became a proficient electrician and was soon a journeyman electrician.

After about a two year courtship, on September 30, 1949 he married Roberta N. (Bert) Obert, a widow whose husband was killed in World War II. He quickly became Dad to her two children, Jim and Jean Obert. As time passed Jim and Jean each married and started families and he was the beloved Po-Po to Kathy, Juergan, Roberta, Ernie, and Jimmie. Kay also had a close relationship with numerous nieces and nephews.

Bert and Kay were a very loving couple who enjoyed family and friends. They sold their home in 1980. They bought an R.V. and became nomads, a life they both thoroughly enjoyed.

Kay went home to be with the Lord on February 12, 2005.

Memorial Graveside Services: Friday, May 16, 2008, 3:00 pm, Home Cemetery, Tarkio.