Last week, our community lost a good friend, Karl Kniseley, retired
and longtime pastor of First Lutheran Church of Glendale.
During times when we talk about the need for mentors and role models,
we don't have to look much further than Karl. With a strong voice and
confident demeanor that I'll never forget, he influenced and set an
example not only for a congregation, but for his community.
Our family was but one that held him with great respect and admiration
over the years, and as he moves on I can only imagine how many lives Karl
touched and made a difference in.
In our family alone, he performed more than 43 ceremonies over the
years, including my own baptism, confirmation and marriage. He was even
there for my children's baptisms.
Some of the ceremonies were joyous occasions in which he shared our
dreams and excitement for tomorrow, helping us to grow and stay on a good
path. And in other not-so-happy occasions, he was always there for us,
giving us strength and comfort, always encouraging our faith and giving
us hope.
Karl, we will miss you. You stood tall in our community, taught us
faith, and you made a difference. Our family and so many will remember
you for years to come.
CHIP STONE
Glendale
