Jerry Lee Knasel's Obituary
Jerry Lee Knasel, a beloved Westlake, Ohio, community member, passed away on May 3, 2023, at 78. He devoted 35 years of his life to teaching in the Cleveland public school system, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of countless students. Jerry was also deeply committed to his membership and leadership roles at the West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, which he cherished dearly.
Born on July 14, 1944, in Sidney, Ohio, Jerry was the son of the late Avery Hubert and Esther Kathryn Knasel. He was preceded in death by his cherished life mate, Mark Holloway, and is survived by his life mate, partner, and husband of 56 years, David Prok. Jerry was a loving brother to Linda (Scott) Piper, Bruce (Vicki) Knasel, and Darcy (Myron) Verdier, a dear uncle to many nieces and nephews, and a treasured friend to a host of extended family and loved ones.
Jerry was educated in a small country schoolhouse in Pemberton, Ohio, for his elementary years before attending Fairlawn High School and graduating in 1962. He worked at several summer jobs while attending Bowling Green State University, where he earned his bachelor's degree. Jerry’s roommate was his future husband and life mate David Prok. Jerry also earned his master’s degree at Kent State. He practiced yoga and Tai Chi, often attending classes at the LGBT Center and InwardCompass Yoga in Cleveland, Ohio. Jerry enjoyed traveling with his life mates Mark and David and made several European trips. They spent many summers in Transylvania, Romania, with their Unitarian partner church. Jerry, David, and Mark taught the village children of Bagyon, in their summer school program. They embraced their engagement with GAYLA, a gay men’s conference each summer at Ferry Beach, in Saco, Maine.
Jerry's life changed when he and his life mates moved in together in January of 1964, creating their intentional loving family of choice. On June 27, 2014, Jerry married his much-loved life mate and beloved partner David Prok, in Providence, Rhode Island. Where gay marriage was legal at that time. He found peace by embracing his life at home with Mark and David.
Jerry was an active member of the LGBT community, serving in leadership roles at the LGBT Center and the West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church. He will be remembered for his unwavering love and concern for others, leaving a legacy of kindness and compassion. Jerry's warmest memories were those spent with his loving partners and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Jerry's life will be held on Sunday, June 4, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, located at 20401 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River, Ohio 44116. Jerry was among the earth's good, and may he rest in peace.
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