James "Jimmy" Walter Kneese

James Walter “Jimmy” Knesse, born October 9, 1932, in the, then new Nix Hospital in San Antonio, Texas to Silas Charles Kneese and Lydia Victoria Kleinknecht Kneese, died on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in Johnson City, Texas at the age of 93.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Howard and Charles Kneese; and niece Laurie Crittenden.

Jimmy is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Margie Nell Lechow Kneese, son Todd Kneese and wife Sandra; grandchildren, Kayla Tolan and husband Joshua, Colt Kneese, and Sam Welch and wife Ranelle; three great grandchildren, Luke, Ember, and Helena; sister in law, Rosie Danz; niece Christi and husband Bart, nephews, Dave Crittenden and Troy Danz and wife Becky; and many other loving relatives and a host of dear friends.

Jimmy attended Woodlawn Elementary School, Horace Mann Junior High School, and Jefferson High School, all in San Antonio.  

After working a few years in the auto parts business, he attended San Antonio College, all the while working to support his school activities as well as the necessities of day-to-day life.  In 1956 he moved to Austin to attend the University of Texas and worked part-time jobs.  After working for two car dealerships as well as the City of Austin, he pursued a sales position with a nationwide organization for about 10 years.  Following this, Jimmy became associated with a local Austin law firm where he remained for over 30 years.

It was during all this time that he met and married Margie Nell Lechow of Cypress Mill, Texas.  In 1977 they sold their holdings in Austin and Travis County and built a new home near Henly in Hays County, together and with much assistance from friends.  They raised sheep as well as turkeys and chickens for son Todd’s FFA projects.  Many years were full of activity working together at the Henly home as well as Margie’s home place in Cypress Mill, TX.

He was most happy enjoying time with his son Todd and grandchildren Kayla and Colt.  

Visitation will be 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM, Sunday, November 23, 2025, at Crofts – Crow Funeral Home in Johnson City.  Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Cypress Mill Cemetery with Chaplain William Karlson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Cypress Mill Cemetery, Round Mountain Fire Department, or Methodist Hill Country Hospice.