DOLORES ANNE KNEE

DOLORES ANNE "DEE" KNEE

July 31, 1949 – October 26, 2025

On Sunday, October 26, 2025, Dolores Anne Knee, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away at the age of 76 in Lemoore, California.

Born on July 31, 1949, in Pennsylvania to Curtis and Vivian Gowen, Dolores- affectionately known as Dee-lived a life marked by service, joy, and devotion to her family and community. She graduated from Illinois State University in 1971 and began her teaching career at Nokomis High School in Nokomis, Illinois. On June 9, 1973, she married the love of her life, Richard Alan Knee. The couple later moved to Lemoore, California, in 1975.

After receiving her California teaching credential, Dee began what would become a remarkable 40-year tenure at Lemoore High School as a Physical Education teacher. Beginning in 1977, she coached gymnastics, freshman girls' basketball, and cheerleading, and eventually served as head of the Physical Education Department. Dee had a gift for bringing creativity and excitement to her classes. She introduced a variety of dance styles-ranging from country line dancing to hip hop and ballroom-and developed lifetime recreation and outdoor education courses that taught students practical skills such as bicycling, swimming, and archery. Later in her career, she discovered CrossFit and joyfully incorporated it into the curriculum, offering yet another way to connect with students through movement, challenge, and healthy living.

In 2009, Dee was inducted into the Lemoore Union High School Hall of Fame for her outstanding coaching achievements, most notably leading the 1980 Freshman Girls Basketball team to an extraordinary 50-0 record. Her dedication to her students and colleagues was widely recognized, and in 2011 she was honored as Teacher of the Year.

Beyond her professional life, Dee was a devoted wife and mother of three. She cherished her relationship with her Savior, Jesus Christ, and treasured her morning quiet time in the Word. Dee found joy in tending her flower and vegetable gardens, baking, canning, and sharing her beloved homemade Christmas caramels. Known for her kindness, good nature, and attentive ear, she especially treasured holidays when the whole family could gather and make memories together.

Dolores is survived by her husband, Richard Knee; her brother, George Gowen (Mary); her three daughters, Jennifer Garza (Greg), Rebekah Carvalho (Jason), and Chrissy Wheeler (John); eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude for the many expressions of kindness, love, and support during this time. Dolores will be forever in our hearts - until we meet again. Thank you.