Danielle Knox

Danielle Nicole Knox was a very special daughter, sister, niece, aunt, and friend to so many. She was a devoted Christian who enjoyed sharing God’s love with others. Reading her Bible and offering her gifts of compassion and grace brought her much happiness. Danielle spent her time drawing others toward their faith and gave of her own time and resources to help anyone in need. A true believer, she modeled that nothing could stand in the way of God’s love. Taken too soon, she will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

The year 1989 brought the nation Sony CD players, Play-Doh Whopper kits, and the Sega Genesis. The Berlin Wall was dismantled leading to the reunification of East and West Germany, the first episode of The Simpsons aired on television, and Back to the Future II opened in theaters. The music of Madonna and New Kids on the Block continued to gain in popularity. With the computer age gaining momentum, Deborah Ann (Handshoe) and Timothy Ray Knox welcomed the arrival of their newborn baby girl, Danielle on July 10th in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Her birth brought them both great joy.

Growing up in Kendallville, Dani lived a typical childhood. She attended local schools and graduated with the Class of 2008 from East Noble High School. Active and intelligent, she was a proud member of the National Honor Society as well as the high school marching band. Dedicated to her work as a musician, she mastered several instruments along her journey. She was skilled at playing the clarinet, the flute, the saxophone, as well as the piano. Her talent continued on when she was invited to play with the Goshen College Honor band. Nothing brought her greater joy than picking up an instrument and learning a challenging new song. In addition to her musical gifts, Dani had an extraordinary ability to write. She loved to journal and kept a blog. She found great satisfaction in connecting with others through her website and bringing them closer to God. Enjoying her ability to blog while at the same time building meaningful relationships with others, she used her gifts to lead a Bible study group online. She had a natural way of making everyone she met feel comfortable in her presence both physically and digitally!

Unfortunately, much of Dani’s adult years were spent managing health issues. Early on, she worked at the Walmart in Kendallville where she was known as a star cashier! She was also loved very much by the staff and clients at Scott’s Foods where she held an office position. When she wasn’t working and was able to enjoy herself, she had many special interests. She enjoyed music, photography, cooking, and doing crafts. Dani had a real knack for kids and had recently bonded with Lillian, a little girl she watched for over the last three years. She treasured her time with her family and had a wonderful relationship with each and every one of them. She especially looked forward to their special times together at Easter and Christmas. Dani loved to make these holiday seasons meaningful and share the rich blessings of her faith life with others. Over the years, the family vacationed together to the beautiful area of Cozumel and the Grand Cayman Islands where they enjoyed hours of scuba diving; a highlight for Dani, who loved the water. Dani loved to fill her life with people and music. Described as humble, loving, and compassionate Dani’s warm collection of memories will be cherished by many of her special friends and close family. True to her nature, Dani donated her corneas in honor of her late grandmother Ella Faye Handshoe.

Danielle Nicole Knox, age 27, died Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She is survived by her parents, Tim and Deb Knox of Wolcottville. Also her brother, Travis and Ashley Bailey of Avilla. Her brother, Travis James and Cynthia Knox of Kendallville. Her grandfather, Damon Handshoe of Corunna. Uncle Duane and Sherry Handshoe of Corunna. Aunt Lisa and Rick Weimer of Fishers, Indiana. Aunt Sherry and George Kirst of Niles, Michigan. Uncle Carson Strouse of Kendallville. Nieces and nephews: Owen Bailey, Maleah Bailey, Braylee Bailey, Saige Days, Aidan Amburgey, and Shane Howard. In addition, a special little girl that Danielle cared for and was very close to, Lillian Byler. As well as her dog, Fancy Pants. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Ella Faye Handshoe; paternal grandparents, Arnold and Mary Knox; and her aunts, Tawnya Strouse and Tawana Goings. Visitation will be Friday from 4:00 – 8:00 PM at Hite Funeral Home in Kendallville. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 21, 2017 at 2:00 PM at Hite Funeral Home with Pastor Dave Beard officiating. Burial will take place at Orange Cemetery near Rome City. Pallbearers will be Travis James Knox, Rick Weimer, Duane Handshoe, George Kirst, David Poage, and Adam Gordon. Honorary pallbearer is Gran Roberts. Memorial donations may be made to a family friend, Granville Roberts. Gran will soon be undergoing heart transplant surgery and Dani would want monetary gifts to go to Gran and his family to help with health care costs in her memory. Share a memory or send a condolence at www.hitefuneralhome.com Arrangements entrusted to Hite Funeral Home of Kendallville.