Jesse Donald Knotts (1924 - 2006)

Born 21 Jul 1924 in Morgantown, Monongalia, West Virginia, United States

Ancestors

Husband of Kathryn Elaine (Metz) Amundson — married 27 Dec 1947 (to 1966) in Ohio, West Virginia, United States

Died 24 Feb 2006 at age 81 in Los Angeles, California, United States

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Biography

Don Knotts was born in Appalachia, in West Virginia. See Appalachia Project.

Don Knotts is Notable.

Don Knotts, a native West Virginian was a Veteran of World War II and was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal, Asiatic- Pacific Campaign Medal (with 4 bronze service stars), Army Good Conduct Medal, Marksman Badge (with Carbide Bar) and Honorable Service Lapel Pin.

In his acting career Don Knotts played “Barney Fife” in the Andy Griffith Show and his various roles in movies like the Shakiest Gun, Ghost and Mr. Chicken, and The Incredible Mr. Limpet. Later he acted in the role of "Mr. Furley" on Three's Company.

" Jesse grew up in Morgantown, West Virginia. At age 13, his father died leaving his mother to take care of him and his brothers. While Jesse had his struggles, he had dreams too. He wanted to be a ventriloquist and he found books on ventriloquism. He practiced with sock puppets and saved his money until he could get a real ventriloquist dummy. When he was old enough, he joined the military. The military recognized his talents and placed him in the entertainment corp. He toured the western Pacific Islands as a comedian as part of a G.I. variety show called "Stars and Gripes.” It was there he was able to share his talents with fellow soldiers. In 1946, he discharged with rank of Technician Grade 5, which was the equivalent then of a Corporal. During his military service, Jesse was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal (with 4 bronze service stars), Army Good Conduct Medal, Marksman Badge (with an M1 Carbine) and Honorable Service lapel pin. Through his military service, Jesse gained confidence and found that he had a talent for making people laugh. In spite of his early struggles, Jesse became one of the best-loved characters of all time. For it was Jesse,...Jesse Don Knotts who brought us Barney Fife"

Sources

BURIAL: Westwood Memorial Park in Westwood, Los Angeles

Find A Grave: Memorial #13434987 Don Knotts

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don_Knotts

http://archive.wvculture.org/vrr/va_view.aspx?Id=12291026&Type=Marriage Marriage License for Jesse Donald Knotts & Kathryn Elaine Metz in Wheeling, Ohio Co, WV dated 01 December 1947

https://www.ancestry.com/discoveryui-content/view/13326610:2238 U.S., World War II Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947 for Jesse Donald Knotts