Thomas James Knowles

Thomas J. Knowles, 56, of Fowler, died Saturday, July 14, 2007, at 1:30 PM at St. Elizabeth Health Center in Youngstown. He was born on October 11, 1950 in Sharon, Pa., to James C. Knowles and Claire (Mohney) Knowles. Tom worked as a journeyman bricklayer, primarily out of Union Local 43, before and after spending 17 years as a supervisor in the mason department at Copperweld Steel. He was an animal lover and an avid music fan who loyally supported National Public Radio. Some of Tom's favorite programs were Folk Music with Jim Blum and A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Mary J. (Sorocak) Knowles, whom he married on March 24, 1973; two daughters, Rebecca J. Knowles of Chicago, Ill. and Miranda J. (Peter) McLinden of Cincinnati; his mother, Claire Knowles of Cortland; his father, James Knowles of Orlando, Fla.; one sister, Brenda Abbott of Portland, Ore., and one brother, Daniel (Pattie) Knowles of Houston, Texas. Also surviving is his granddaughter, Mary Katherine McLinden. He was preceded in death by a brother, Ken Knowles. At Tom's request, their will be no calling hours or funeral services. Material contributions can be made to: WKSU Public Radio P.O. Box 5190 Kent, OH 44242-0001 OR Animal Welfare League 545 Brunstetter Rd. Warren, OH 44481 Arrangements are being handled by Shafer-Winans Funeral Chapel, Cortland. Family and friends may view this obituary and send condolences at: www.shaferwinanschapel.com