Olen R. Knecht

Olen R. Knecht, 79, of rural Orangeville (North Centre Township), died Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at The Gardens at Orangeville. 

Born December 18, 1945 in Mifflinville, he was a son of the late Rendon and Ruth (Karchner) Knecht.  He and his wife, Fay T. (Trump) Knecht,  celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on June 29th.

Olen was a 1964 graduate of Central Columbia High School and then attended and graduated from the National School of Meat Cutting in Toledo, Ohio. 

He faithfully and  honorably served his country in the U. S. Marine Corps from November 15, 1965 to November 14, 1967 as a Lance Corporal.  He had been awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Marksmanship Badge. 

He was well known for his honest and strong work ethic.  During his working career he had been employed by the former Hyde's Grade A Meat Market in Berwick; ACME Markets, both in Columbia and Montour Counties; Columbia Montour AVTS, in Bloomsburg as well as the owner and operator of Olen R. Knecht Auctions, for which he did for nearly 50 years. 

He was a member of the Ebenezer United Methodist Church; Oriental Lodge, No. 460, F. & A. M., of Orangeville and the Millville American Legion.  He was a longtime member of the PA Auctioneers Association (Northeast Chapter) as well as the State Association where he held all the offices including President.  He was recognized with the "Auctioneer of the Year" Award and was inducted into the PA Auctioneers Hall of Fame. 

Olen loved children and coached Little League Baseball in Orangeville for many years.  He deeply cherished and valued his family, his faithful friends and neighbors. 

Surviving, in addition to his wife, Fay, are his two sons:  Ray Knecht (Bobbi Jo), and Mark Knecht (Wendy).  Also surviving are a granddaughter, Emily (Matt) and a sister-in-law, Joanne Knecht.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his two brothers:  Jay K. Knecht on November 13, 2020 and Edwin W. Knecht on October 25, 2001 as well as an infant great grandson, Hunter.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the Family.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to "Marine Toys for Tots Foundation", 18251 Quantico Gateway Dr., Triangle, VA  22172.  The McMichael Funeral Home, Inc., of Benton, is honored to serve the Knecht Family.  For online condolences or for additional information, please visit our website:  www.mcmichaelfuneralhome.com.

                                        "Semper Fi, my Brothers"

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