Edward and Peggy Knowles

Edward Alan Knowles, 63, and Peggy Lynn Knowles, 68, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away just one day apart—Edward on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Gateway Regional Medical Center, and Peggy on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Alhambra Care Center. Their lives were defined by love, laughter, dedication, and the deep bond they shared until the very end.

Edward was born on September 18, 1961, in Granite City, Illinois, the son of the late Victor Clay and Louise Catherine (Huber) Knowles. Peggy was born on August 16, 1956, in Belleville, Illinois, the daughter of Wanda (McBride) Knepper of Branson, Missouri, and the late Arnie Knepper. Edward and Peggy were married on May 29, 2010, in a joyful ceremony at Horner Park in Lebanon, Illinois, and their marriage was a testament to enduring companionship and mutual devotion.

Edward served as the assistant director of information technology at Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville, where he was respected for his leadership and years of dedicated service. He was also a proud ambassador for Maker’s Mark whiskey, a devoted lover of his dogs, and a passionate baseball fan. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and annual lake trips with his closest friends—always savoring the peace of nature and camaraderie.

Peggy devoted many years to the healthcare field, always caring and compassionate in her work. She had a vibrant spirit and an infectious love for life. She treasured her dogs, reveled in family camping adventures, and was a lifelong fan of auto racing—a cherished family tradition. Known for her playful love of the Tasmanian Devil, Peggy brought energy and joy to everyone she encountered.

Together, Edward and Peggy built a blended family filled with love. They are survived by their three children, Christopher Baue, Bridgette Miller, and Casey (Philip Brown) Baue, all of Indianapolis, Indiana; many grandchildren; Peggy’s beloved mother, Wanda Knepper of Branson, Missouri; Peggy’s brother, Art Knepper of Fairview Heights; her sister, Tina Knepper of Newport, Tennessee; nephews Reed Knepper and Rick Smith; and a host of extended family and dear friends.

They were preceded in death by Edward’s parents and Peggy’s father, Arnie Knepper.

In celebration of their lives, a memorial visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of a memorial service at 1:00 p.m., with Reverend Sharon Autenreith officiating. Edward and Peggy will be laid to rest together at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon following the service.

Memorials may be made to Vitas Hospice, and may be accepted at the funeral chapel.

Condolences and memories can be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.