Elbert Lee (Buddy) Kniss 9/15/54-11/29/23
Elbert Lee Kniss was the youngest of three sons born to Francis Wayne Kniss and Beulah Estes Kniss on September 15, 1954. He was named for his uncle Elbert Jones and aunt Rose Lee Estes because they shared the same birthdate. However, everyone knew him as Buddy and his personality fit the name.
Buddy graduated from Gainesville High School in 1973. He married Jana Slaten Kniss in 1976 and they had one son, Joshue Lee Kniss. Buddy worked for Santa Fe Railroad and Peterbilt. He retired from Peterbilt in 2017. He was a volunteer for the Gainesville Fire Department and also worked as an EMT in various places in Cooke and Grayson County.
One of the greatest joys of Buddy’s life was his love of music. He was in the band in high school playing both the saxophone and clarinet. He loved all types of music, particularly music from the 30’s and 40’s. Buddy was a member of the Gainesville Swing Orchestra during the early years of the band. He also directed the handbell choir at Whitesboro First United Methodist Church for a time.
Buddy also enjoyed playing in the church softball league. He coached both a ladies softball team and his son’s little league baseball team.
Buddy never met a stranger, and no one was safe from his practical jokes. He had a talent for making you laugh or smile. With regards to “birth order” he believed the rules did not apply to him.
He is survived by his son, Joshua Kniss & wife, Micah. Three grandsons, Jimmy, Wyatt & Max. One granddaughter, Katelyn Metcalf. Brothers, Ken (Wanna) and Ronny (Terri). Cousins, Joe Bob (Mikki), Gerald (Leigh) Jones and numerous nephews and nieces.
Buddy was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.
A Memorial Service is planned for Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 2:00 pm in Meador Funeral Home Chapel, Hwy 377, Whitesboro, Texas
Buddy was one of a kind! He is missed, until we meet again brother in law!!
I remember Buddy always having a smile on his face. I think hearing him laugh at his own jokes was funnier than the joke he was telling!! It’s a good feeling knowing he’s not in pain and he’s in a better place. RIP Buddy 🙏
Buddy was a good brother in law, he was fun to hang out with.
Thoughts and prayers to my cousin Josh and his family as they mourn the loss of his Dad. Rest in eternal peace uncle Bud! Much love to you!
There never was a dull moment when Buddy was around. When carpooling to Denton he made the trip short. I pray for comfort for his family.
Thoughts and prayers for your family during this time.
Mitzi (Ramsey) Lester & Mickie Lester
Grew up with Buddy and Joe Bob.Grades 1-12.Two very talented people.Worked at Peterbilt also.Played many softball games with Buddy.He always had a smile on his face.Prayers for his family.RIP
I had no idea Buddy had passed away. He was definitely ine of a kind. Thinking of you Jana
Buddy was one of kind. He will be greatly missed.
I am speechless!! I had absolutely no idea Buddy had passed away! i grew up with Ken, Ron, and Buddy!! i am so sorry to hear of his passing! My prayers are with Jana and the family.
I had absolutely no idea Buddy had passed away!! Very heartbreaking! i knew him his brothers Ken and Ron my whole life!! My condolences and Prayers are with Jana and the family!! I am just speechless!!
I’ll miss you pops. My childhood was always filled with laughs when I was around you and nana.
I haven’t seen him since we graduated. I remember him as always a funny guy and smiling🥲 Condolences and prayers for his family ❤️
He was a sweet and funny classmate in school! So sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family.
The entire Kniss family (including Buddy) and my family go back as long as I can remember. That said it’s like losing a member of the family … but we know that this sad goodbye we experience today pales in comparison to the joy that is being experienced in a place we call Heaven, but at this very moment Buddy calls home. We also remember that just as Jesus wept … we too weep as we kneel at the grave site of.a loved one … and we also remember and rejoice that this loss is only for a little while. Till that day Buddy … Then What A Day That Will Be!
I was also surprised by Buddy’s passing. In high school, we had fun times in band and playing golf. He had a great sense of humor and a sweet personality. My condolences to the entire family.
I am so sorry for the family’s loss and more sorry I did not know of his ailing. Buddy, where do you start to explain your brotherly love for one of those folks who come and go in our lives but always left you with a smile on your face and a chuckle in your heart, I can’t think of a better legacy to leave to future generations. I am a much better human being for having the blessing of his impact on me as a human. May the music in Heaven pick it up a step now that Buddy is there to liven things up. RIP my friend, job well done. So mode it be.
I remember Buddy as sweet and friendly. I was shocked at his passing, of which I heard about it just yesterday (01/02/224. My sincere condolences to his family, and for those who knew him best.
Never a dull moment!