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Philip Edward Kniffin

Kniffen

Philip Edward Kniffin left this earth to join the love of his life, Edith Kniffin, on February 1, 2025, in his home surrounded by family. Philip was born on April 29, 1934, in New Haven, CT to Earl Vinton and Bernice (Reed) Kniffin of Guilford, CT.

Phil was a strong man in mind and body. As a 7th generation stone mason, he was a master of his craft and often referred to as the stone man. After working as a stone mason for many years, peppering the New England coast with his masterful work, he retired to the Ohio Valley where locals may know him as PK.

He overcame many obstacles in life to build a home filled with love and joy. He was the granite foundation this family was built on, and his wife Edith was the mortar that sealed all the cracks. He lived a long, good life and often said he lived 3 lifetimes.

Preceded in death by his parents; first wife Rhae Downs, and their children Bernard and Wayne Kniffin, and Wanda Needham; siblings Henry, George, Earl, and Peter Kniffin, and Ardel Whitaker; wife, Edith (Smith) Kniffin as well as 2 grandchildren.

He is survived by his brother David (Marilyn) Kniffin of VT; children Philip E Kniffin Jr. “Butch” of CT, Tara (Kermit) Polan of OH, Brian (Tami) Kniffin of CT, Tami (Mike) Pietrowicz of CT, Brenda Kniffin (David Whitaker) of VT, Todd Kniffin of OH; step children Carolyn (Jeff) Smith of GA, and William Handlowich of CT; as well as 18 grandchildren and 35 great grandchildren.

His big personality, quick witted humor, and masterful way with words will leave a hole in the hearts of the people that loved him.

In lieu of flowers donations could be made to St. Jude, one of Phil’s favorite charities.

After a private family gathering at the graveside, a celebration of life will be held on April 18th at the Palmer Township Community building at 1PM. All are welcome to join us in celebrating a life well lived by a man we all cherished.

McCurdy Funeral Home in Beverly is in charge of the arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.mccurdyfh.com.