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David Knoll Obituary
Knoll, David S.
MADISON - David S. Knoll passed away peacefully on Sunday, Aug. 22, 2021. David was born on March 17, 1959 in Washington DC to Erwin and Doris Knoll. Precocious and exceptional by nature, David's interests and talents were fostered throughout his life, including woodworking, mechanical tinkering and playing blues guitar.
He was a gifted athlete – as a runner, cyclist, motorcyclist and ballet dancer. David was also an avid and skilled sailor, having raced as a young man on Chesapeake Bay and later on the Atlantic, Pacific, and closer to home on Lake Mendota. His love of woodworking and boat work came to fruition in his restoration of Electra, the prettiest sailboat on Lake Mendota.
David earned a B.A. in Literature and History, an M.A. in History and a J.D. in Law, all from the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
David owned and was a partner in several businesses including the Audio Clinic, Upper Echelon Bikes, and later, Knoll & Laitsch S.C. David's dedication to helping his clients, including juveniles and vulnerable families, was creative and tireless.
He would be happiest to be remembered as a wonderful step-father to Samantha Deacon; grandfather to Edward David Deacon; brother to Jon Knoll; and life partner to Kitty Bennett. He will be missed by them all and many more.
His family wishes to thank the UW Neurology Clinic, especially Dr. Michael Hanson, and the great staff at Swedish Hospital in Chicago.
Donations in remembrance may be given to the ALS Association at www.als.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Knoll
Shelley Gaylord
September 6, 2021
David was a polysyllabic, huge hearted, warrior for his clients. A real mentsch with expressed love for his Kitty and family. His care for his mother was touching. Loved seeing him in court.
Tina Geier
September 3, 2021
It was an honor to know and work alongside David over the years. His dedication, compassion, and brilliant mind were beyond comparison. My sympathies are with his loved ones.
Deb Anderson
September 3, 2021
I am so very sorry to hear of David's passing. He was an honorable human and I admired his passion and was eternally in awe of his wit.
Svetlana Taylor
September 3, 2021
Kitty and Family,
I had the great privilege and honor to know David for many years. I knew every special meal he was planning to cook for every holiday (pastas and special salads and all sorts of great things!). He was always so excited to get home to you to celebrate and enjoy time off. I have seen photos of vacations, of Sam, of Electra as she progressed, and I believe of every pet you had in the past 10 or more years. He was incredibly filled with joy at the birth of his grandson! David was brilliant, in general, and as an attorney. His clients adored him and so did all of us lawyers who were lucky enough to spend time with him at work. In addition to all that, he really helped my family out when we needed it. My boys, my husband, and I, will always be immensely grateful for his compassion, his humor, and his legal expertise. I grieve with you and my heart is heavy for you. He was a lucky man to have such a wonderful family, and you were all lucky to have him.
Ginny Whitehouse
September 1, 2021
My deepest condolences to David's loved ones. He helped many, many people during his legal career, and will be missed.
Bettie Hall
August 31, 2021
Dear Family, It was always a pleasure to see Dave over the many years I worked in the Dane County Courthouse. He had the best interest of his clients in mind while always showing respect for staff he had to work with. He was such a nice person. My sympathies to you all.
Patricia Sheldon
August 31, 2021
I am sorry to read about your passing. I enjoyed teaming with you as I knew that the people you represented got the very best representation. You had a kind smile, a brilliant mind and great sense of humor. My prayers are with your loved ones
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