Hub Knittel

Derald "Hub" Knittel, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, at the age of 90, exactly six years to the day after the passing of his cherished wife, Jozann.

Born on June 13, 1935 in South Dakota, Hub grew up in Oregon and later built a life in California, residing in San Diego for 14 years, Del Mar for 38 years, and Rancho Bernardo for 7 years. Hub and Jozann married in 1953, sharing a profound love that shaped his life. He often said Jozann made him a better man, and her absence was deeply felt after her passing in 2019. Those close to him believe Hub chose his moment to depart, perhaps reaching out to reunite with his beloved wife.

A proud graduate of Oregon State University in 1962, Hub earned a degree in Engineering and enjoyed a long, successful career in the field, including work on the Lunar Orbiter that orbited the moon and took photos of it in 1966 & 1967 in preparation for the moon landings. His professional achievements were matched by his warmth and generosity, touching the lives of family, friends, colleagues, and caregivers alike. Known for his kindness, Hub made everyone feel valued and appreciated, and people often said he was a lovely man.

Hub is survived by his daughter, Virginia "Ginger", and son, Brian; six grandchildren, Matthew, Nick, Clark, Alex, Daniel, and Harper (formerly known as Marina); four great-granddaughters, Laney, Riley, Aria, and Azalea; and 3 siblings, Norma, Sharon, and Paul. They cherished him deeply and will miss his presence dearly. Hub's legacy of love, compassion, and connection will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.