Gordon G. Knight Obituary: Amy Roloff’s Father Dies at 97, Remembered for Service, Family and a Remarkable Life

Gordon G. Knight, the father of television personality Amy Roloff, is being remembered following reports of his death at age 97. According to the obituary provided, Knight died on October 5, 2026, at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Michigan, after a life shaped by military service, engineering, family, faith, and a lasting curiosity about the world.

News of his passing reportedly became public on October 26, when his grandson Jacob Roloff shared a tribute reflecting on their relationship and the memories they shared. The account portrays Knight as a man whose reserved first impression gave way to warmth, humor, and affection.

Gordon Knight’s Life and Legacy in Michigan

Born on January 1, 1929, in Detroit, Michigan, Gordon was the son of Charles and Eveline Knight. He later served in the Korean War before building a career as a civil and structural engineer with Ford Motor Company, where he reportedly worked for 30 years before retiring.

Outside his professional life, Knight enjoyed activities that connected him with history and the outdoors. He belonged to the Ottawa Long Rifle group and participated with his wife in historical reenactments and national rendezvous gatherings. The couple also spent time at a cabin they built on Lake Michigan in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Faith and community involvement were important to Knight. The supplied obituary describes him as a member and lay leader at North Lake United Methodist Church and notes his association with American Legion Post 419 in Pinckney, Michigan.

Jacob Roloff’s Tribute to His Grandfather

Jacob’s tribute reportedly recalled childhood visits to Michigan and the time he spent reconnecting with Gordon during the final years of his grandfather’s life. He remembered Gordon’s distinctive sense of humor, his smile and wink, and his ability to remain active and curious even in his nineties.

Jacob also reflected on Gordon’s service during the Korean War, expressing regret that he had not asked more questions about that chapter of his grandfather’s life. He remembered sitting together on the deck and appreciated the opportunity to spend time with him again.

Family and Survivors

Gordon was married to Patricia A. Knight, who preceded him in death. Their daughter Cynthia R. Norwood also died before him.

According to his published obituary, Gordon is survived by his children:

• Kathryn Briceland and her husband, John

• Amy Roloff-Marek and her husband, Chris

• Roger Knight and his wife, Sarah

He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and his sister, Joan Finch.

Memorial Service Details

The funeral home’s obituary confirms that a memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday, January 5, 2027, at North Lake United Methodist Church in Chelsea, Michigan. Family and friends may visit from 11 a.m. to noon, followed by the service at noon.

Gordon G. Knight’s Lasting Legacy

Gordon’s 97 years encompassed military service, three decades of engineering work, community involvement, and a family that continued to grow across generations. The memories shared by his grandson and the details preserved in his obituary portray a man who valued independence, curiosity, humor, and meaningful relationships.

For his family, his legacy lives on in the lessons he shared, the experiences they remember, and the generations who carry his influence forward.

May Gordon G. Knight rest in peace, and may his family and loved ones find comfort in their memories of him.