Damon Byron Knight was born in Matador, Texas on June 22, 1937, and passed away peacefully in Lathrop, CA on November 25, 2023, at the age of 86 years old. He was a resident of Manteca
for over 40 years and contributed to the community through many organizations, as both a volunteer and business owner.
He is survived by his children; Kathy de Jong, David Knight, and Jeff Knight, along with his sister Nel Muncill. His “3 K’s” granddaughters; Kristiana, Kristen and Katie, and grandsons Ryan and
Erik also mourn his loss.
He is predeceased by his first wife of 48 years Marilyn Knight, and his second wife Taffy Knight, mother Evelyn Eaton, father William Knight, and brother Nathan Knight. Damon moved around and lived with several relatives during his formative years, but eventually settled down with his mother and step-father, Harold Eaton in Modesto. It was here where he met the love of his life, Marilyn while attending Modesto Junior College. They soon figured out that their mutual love of music made them a great pair on and off the dance floor. After they got married, they moved to Lincoln, Nebraska where Damon served in the Air Force as a
Captain during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Damon and Marilyn next relocated back to California to be closer to family and he eventually transitioned to working for the Federal Aviation Association. The Knight family relocated to several locations including Sacramento, Yorba Linda, and Lancaster. When the family relocated to Needles, CA with temperatures frequently above 100 degrees, he purchased a ski boat, learned the ropes, and the family embraced what would be become a favorite pastime for all. The photo taken several years later of the 5 family members simultaneously skiing behind one boat will live in family infamy. In 1974 , the clan settled in Manteca when Damon transferred to the Stockton Municipal Airport . He worked there as at the Flight Service Station Specialist until his retirement in 1995. Never one to sit still, Damon constantly pursued projects big and small, and had a curiosity of mechanics and engineering which is what lead him to starting a computer and copier repair business, post retirement. He also co-owned a bookstore in downtown Manteca. Damon had a long history of civic involvement; he was President of the local Kiwanis Club and Raymus Village Homeowners Association. He was also quite active at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, where he volunteered for years at the annual Harvest Festival and for the St. Vincent de Paul Society. He
and Marilyn were an example of a strong, faith-filled marriage, as they also taught pre-marriage Engagement Encounter classes for the church. After retiring, he dedicated his efforts to Manteca’s SHARPS program (Seniors Helping Area Residents and Police).
Damon and Marilyn enjoyed many travels before her passing including trips to Rome, Jerusalem, Jamaica, Panama, Canada, and other locations with their cruise buddies and friends.
In addition, they spear headed wonderful camping trips with their kids and grandkids. Damon had a great singing voice, and his love of laughter was always a great addition around the
campfire. After Marilyn’s passing in 2008, Damon married Taffy Day. After Taffy’s passing, he eventually developed Alzheimer’s in 2018. Being the curious “fixer” that he was, he was looking for solutions and remedies for the disease in every publication. After a strong fight, this dreaded disease finally contributed to his death. He will be greatly missed.
The family will be holding a private service. Those who would like to contribute a memorial are encouraged to donate to the Alzheimer’s Association
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Friday, January 5, 2024
