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John McKnight

John David McKnight, 67, of North Haven, passed away on Jan. 14, 2024, at his home. He was born in Norfolk, Virginia, on May 3, 1956, and was the son of Donald and Betty Core McKnight.

In 1970, John began his career working for McDonald’s in Newington. After 28 years of working his way up in the franchise, John and Pattie became the owners and operators of their first McDonald’s in North Haven. He dedicated over 20 years as a hands-on owner, wholeheartedly devoting his time to the restaurant’s success until retiring after his 50th anniversary with the company in December of 2020. During that time, John became a board member of the Ronald McDonald House and McDonald’s supply chain for over 23 years. Even after retiring, John remained very involved not only with McDonald’s and in the North Haven community but also with the St. John’s association where he lived and made himself available for friends and family whenever they needed his help.

However, his most important new job title after his retirement was being Poppie to his two beautiful granddaughters whom he loved unconditionally; whether he was driving them to and from school or going on a shopping adventure, spending time with them meant the world to him.

John will be remembered by all who knew him for the difference he was able to make in all their lives. He will be missed but never forgotten. He was the beloved father of Don McKnight and Laura (McKnight) Snyder and her husband, Jeff. He is survived by his former wife, Pattie McKnight. He was the loving Poppie of Aubrey Diane and Leah Louise Snyder, brother of Cathy McKnight Bitterman (Michael) and Michael McKnight (Patricia Barrett).

The visiting hours will be from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 20, at The Havens Family, North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue. A celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date. The family requests all flowers to be omitted and memorial contributions be made in John’s name to Ronald McDonald House, 860 Howard Avenue, New Haven, CT 06519 or by visiting their website at www.rmhc-ctma.org for the CT expansion campaign. www.northhavenfuneral.com.