Marie Knack

Elizabeth Marie Knack

January 28, 1951 – May 2, 2026

Elizabeth Marie Knack, known affectionately by all as "Marie," passed away peacefully in her home on May 2, 2026, in Williams Bay, WI, at the age of 75.

Born on January 28, 1951, in Elkhorn, WI, to the late Russell and Betty Alberth, Marie grew up in Delavan, WI, a community she called home for nearly her entire life. She was a proud graduate of Delavan-Darien High School, Class of 1969. Marie’s dedication and sharp mind led her to a nearly 40-year career in the Finance Department at STA-RITE/Pentair, where she was a respected and reliable presence until her retirement.

Marie was a woman of many talents and simple pleasures. She found great joy in the quiet focus of knitting, crocheting, and completing intricate puzzles. Her creative spirit shone through in her coloring, diamond dots, and word games, and she was always up for a spirited game of Bingo or Scrabble. Above all else, her favorite way to spend time was surrounded by her family and friends.

Described by those who loved her as witty and determined, Marie was equally known for her gentle, sweet, and selfless nature. She was a compassionate soul who lived her life with a giving heart, always prioritizing the well-being of others above her own.

Marie is reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, Kenneth “Ken” Knack; her son, Brent Austin; her sister, Betty Alberth; and her parents.

Her legacy of love and selflessness continues through her surviving family. She is survived by her son, Gerald “Jerry” Austin (Linda Gilley); her stepchildren, Kari Schmuck (Al), Kelly Harrington, Kristi Remer (Ken), Kathi Bolton (Ben), Shannon Blay (Richard), and Steven Knack; her brothers, Raymond “Ray” Alberth (Cheryl) and Arnie Alberth (Linda); and her sister, Cyndy Cross (Bruce). She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Christopher Moore, Kelsie Harrington, Riley Harrington, Alexander “Alex” Blay, Henry “Hank” Blay, Elisabeth “Ellie” Austin, Clayton Austin, Jacob Bolton, Dana Riley, and Temperance Scaro. She is also survived by her dearest friends, Nancy and Tommy Gentile, as well as many other family members and friends.

Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, May 8th, 2026 from 1-3PM at the Lazarczyk Family Funeral Home (118 South 2nd Street, Delavan, WI). Privater Interment Spring Grove Cemetery in Delavan. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Marie’s honor to one of the following: American Cancer Society (American Cancer Society), American Association for Cancer Research (www.aacr.org), American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and The Jed Foundation (www.afsp.org) or a charity of your choice in those fields, reflecting her lifelong concern for the health and well-being of others.