Evelyn Dorothy Detwiler Knopf
1903-2005
Evelyn Dorothy Detwiler Knopf was born on September 28, 1903, the 4th child in a family of 8 7 girls and 1 boy. Her parents, Sallie Sara Cecilia & Allen George Detwiler, lived in Trewigtown, PA when she was born. Her father was in charge of the tollgate on the road from Allentown to Philadelphia.
Eva, as she was called, was always helpful and kind. Her youngest sister, Luella, remembers her making an angel costume for her for a school activity. She worked in a shirt factory for a time, and then cleaned many of the relatives homes and took care of any sick. She had a quiet, retiring nature, not prone to complaining about things, but with a good sense of humor and a wonderful laugh. She was very independent, not wanting others to care for her, but preferring to care for them instead.
She fell in love and married Adolph Knopf and they had a wonderful life together filled with hospitality and unselfishly giving of themselves for 57 years of marriage, until death parted them. Their niece, Betty Jean Steinberg, gave Eva and Adolph a splendid 50th Anniversary party. Eva loved to make her home sparkle, to serve delicious meals, to feed and watch the birds, to read many books and to make all who entered her door feel welcome. After Adolphs death, she went to live with her sister, Luella Scott, in Burtonsville, MD, who lovingly cared for her for 17 years. Her Lansdale, PA church family made a quilt for her, which she treasured and used daily. She spent the last 2 years with her niece and nephew, Edrine and Klaus Leukert, in Hahira, GA.
Although they had no children of their own, children were naturally drawn to them. It wasnt just the sweets provided by the expert baker, Adolph, or the wonderful dishes and desserts prepared by Eva, which drew them. It was their kind, patient and loving way with children that made them feel loved and genuinely cared about. For many years, Eva taught in the Sabbath School childrens divisions, giving children special gifts for birthdays and baptisms, and beloved by each one. She was also a light to her neighbors loving, like Jesus did, by example.
She fell asleep in Jesus on Friday, June 3, 2005, at 2:45 p.m. EDT in Hahira, GA. Her family and friends will miss her, but they rest in the knowledge that she loved Jesus and is awaiting His soon return. A graveside service will take place at the family plot in the Lutheran Cemetery in Hilltown, PA, weather permitting. She asked her nephew, Pastor John Hanson, to preside at the service. All graveside arrangements are being directed by Music Funeral Services, Inc. of Valdosta, GA.