Dorothy Jane (DeWorken) Knauss

Dorothy Jane Knauss, 86, passed away on September 26, 2023 at home with family by her side. Dorothy was born in Watsonville, California on January 16, 1937 to parents William L. DeWorken Sr. and Nellie (Combs) DeWorken. She was a lifelong resident of Watsonville.

Dorothy attended Moreland Notre Dame Academy from kindergarten through high school, graduating with the class of 1955. After graduating she began working as a bookkeeper for her parent's business, DeWorken's Furniture. Dorothy married Embert F. Knauss Jr. on November 25, 1956 and had three children; Martin ""Marty"", Karen, and Steven.

Dorothy enjoyed going to garage sales and flea markets, restoring antique furniture, gardening, cooking, baking, making preserves, and taking care of her grandchildren. Her home was always so inviting and relaxing. It was a place for family members to gather for weekend BBQ dinners, holidays, and special occasions. In her later years she became an avid S.F Giant's fan. Most of all she loved spending time with her family. She loved attending all her grandchildren's sports events and activities. She was so happy to be able to attend her grandchildren's high school and college graduations. She cherished the friendships that she had throughout her life, one of which she maintained for 81 years!

Dorothy was very proud of her Native American heritage, being part Creek and Choctaw. Dorothy was a member of the Creek Nation. Her ancestors on her mother's side were in the Trail of Tears, settling in Indian Territory in present day Oklahoma. Dorothy is predeceased by her husband Embert, son Marty, her parents, brother Bill Jr., David, and sister Bernadette. She is survived by her daughter Karen (Harry) Barigian, son Steven (Aurora) Knauss, grandchildren; Nicholas (Jenna) Knauss, Lindsey and Heather Barigian, Ivan (Viri) and Joey Renteria, six great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Dorothy will be greatly miss by all.

A funeral mass was held on October 5, 2023 at Valley Catholic Church with burial at Watsonville Catholic Cemetery. Services were under the care and direction of Mehl's Colonial Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made in Dorothy's name to Hospice of Santa Cruz or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Published in The Pajaronian · December 5, 2023