GUILFORD – Richard E. “Papa Dick” Knowles, 77, died Friday, June 30, 2006, at his home. He was born Aug. 4, 1929, in Salem, Mass., to Raymond and Ruth (Perkins) Knowles. Dick grew up in Willimantic, Conn., and lived his adult life in Guilford where he was employed at Guilford Industries, Western Auto, and Pride Manufacturing, where he retired from, after many years of employment. He also volunteered for many years at the Guilford Fire Department. Dick was an avid hunter and fisherman, and spent every available minute at his camp on Wilson Stream. He was an excellent marksman, and was a very creative man, especially when it came to his outside projects. Dick looked forward to his Saturday afternoon rides to Greenville with his beloved wife, Gloria, of more than 50 years; and with his longtime friend, Richard “Beetle” Nesbit. Dick was loved by all who knew him, and will be sadly missed by his family and friends. Dick is survived by a brother, Arthur Knowles of Connecticut; a sister, Dolly (Knowles) Harman of Milo; two sons, Larry Knowles of Guilford and Mickey Knowles and wife, Jeanne, of Abbot; grandchildren, Chris Knowles and wife, Tammy, of Sebec, Jamie Knowles of Willimantic, Conn., Jody Knowles and wife, Kasey, of Glenburn and Adam Knowles of Abbot; many nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Dick was predeceased by two sisters, Marjorie Bearce and Shirley Crocker; a granddaughter, Tiffany Knowles; and his wife, Gloria, who recently passed away. Family and friends will meet for a graveside service for both Dick and Gloria 1 p.m. Friday, July 7, at the Blanchard Cemetery, Davidson Road, Abbot, with Pastor Ray Beless officiating. Arrangements by Crosby & Neal, Guilford. To sign an online guestbook, please visit www.crosbyneal.com