Richard C. "Santa Claus" Knoche

Cottage Hills: Richard C. “Santa Claus” Knoche, 78, passed away at 3:05am on Thursday, November 16, 2017, at his residence. He was born on May 6, 1939, in Fort Russell Township, the son of the late Clarence and Elsie (Glassmeyer) Knoche. He married the former Doris J. Adams on July 12, 1958, in Bethalto and she preceded him in death on May 19, 2013. Survivors include two daughter and sons in law: Sharon and Danny Jones of Cottage Hills, Debbie and Glenn Heimer of Alton, one son and daughter in law: Richard “Bud” and Kathy Knoche of Camdenton, Missouri, four grandchildren: Chad Mellenthin, Tad Mellenthin, Kristina Jones, Troy Knoche, five great grandchildren: Trinity, Ashtyn, Kori, Joshua, Dade, two sisters: Sylvia Watters of Bethalto, Pauline Malone of West Plains, Missouri, one brother: Melvin Knoche of Meadowbrook, and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends. Richard was formerly employed at Olin for over thirty five years where he retired as a foreman. He was his wife Doris owned and operated the D & R Diner in Cottage Hills for 15 years and Knoche Enterprises in Cottage Hills. He was a former member of Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto. He was Santa Claus for the Toys for Tots for thirteen years. Richard was an associate member of the Alton Leathernecks. He loved bowling, trap shooting, hunting, and collecting antiques. In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by his beloved dogs: Mandy and Munch. In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 10:30am until time of funeral services at 12:30pm on Monday, November 20, 2017, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Rev. Royce Roy will officiate. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto. Memorials are suggested to the Toys for Tots and will be accepted at the funeral home.