Obituary of Jacqueline Lee Knauf

Jacqueline Saunders-Knauf, 78, of Niles, passed away on Wednesday, July 14, 2021, at her home with her loving family by her side. She was born in Niles, Michigan on October 5, 1942, to the late Earl and Helen (Darr) Cochran. After graduating from Niles High School, Jackie went on to attend beauty school, where she obtained her cosmetology license. Jackie married Larry Saunders, and to that union two children were born. After his passing, she married Richard Knauf. Jackie was a lifelong cosmetologist, it was more than just “doing hair” for her, it was a lifestyle that she embraced. Jackie adhered to the “you never leave home without your lipstick on, your hair done, and dressed to the nines” motto. She was the consummate fashionista, loved to socialize, go dancing, shopping, and stopping in at the Prime Table for a wonderful meal. Her sense of humor was unmatched, sometimes she enjoyed getting a belly laugh out of those around her. She loved to cook for her family. She often enjoyed a delectable sweet, often to the chagrin of her family. Jackie’s family was the most important part of her life; she loved her children, grandchildren, and especially her great-granddaughter. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Larry Sauders; and her second husband Richard Knauf. Her family would like to thank her caregivers, who have gone above and beyond for them. Jackie is survived by her daughter; Page Dewald of South Bend; son, Cory Saunders of Niles; granddaughters, Jade (Joshua Randall) Dewald of Mishawaka and Brittany (Shane) Bolinger of Niles; great-granddaughter, Ella Randall; along with a few very close friends. IN lieu of flowers please consider a memorial contribution in her memory directed to the Pet Refuge of Berrien County Michigan, or to Pet Refuge of St Joseph County Indiana. Visitation will be held from 2:00 until 4:00 on Wednesday, July 21, 2021, at Brown Funeral Home, 521 E. Main St, Niles. She will be laid to rest next to her husband Larry, at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens at a later date. Condolences, photos, and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, of Niles.