Herbert Howard McKnight

Herbert Howard McKnight was born in Los Angeles, California to Ralph and Marzette McKnight. His parents divorced in his early years.

In Herb’s early elementary years, his mother married Nels (Pappy) Alberg and they lived in Hollywood Hills. His mother was an RN and his stepdad, a retired fireman. Herb’s formal education was in Hollywood.

Of course, he was introduced to the Hollywood life, was acquainted with a few people who went on to stardom, and worked at the Hollywood Bowl. But he was much more interested in cars and motorcycles; enjoyed desert racing and brought home a few trophies.

After high school he had a favorite job at Lockheed Martin, assembling the wing of the Constellation. That led to his interest in aviation. He took private flying lessons and attained his commercial pilot license.

At the age of 20, Herb married and his son, Kirk Howard was born in 1961. That brief marriage ended in divorce.

Herb was employed with National Cash Register 1960 – 1978. He was initially employed as an apprentice, learning the NCR computers. He transferred to Denver in 1963. With his ability of fixing things, he advanced to a travelling technician for the NW region for several years and “customer service” was very important to him.

In 1978, he bought his own business, “Howard Digital” and again taking care of customers was consuming. Another computer company discovered him, and he sold his business and went back to working on the payroll. He retired from Direct TV in 2006.

Herb married Waunita (Nita) Link in 1964; and they raised 2 sons; Rick (Beth) and Roger (Melissa) and one daughter, Renee (Tim Schultz). Each of the children gave them two grandchildren - - Wyatt and Kristin; Katrina and Alex; and Tyler and Nicole. Herb and Nita lived in the same home in Centennial since 1972. Following a long illness, Herb left that home to spend his last few days in the care of competent, caring people at the Denver Hospice Lowry facility.

Herb is preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law, Phil Link. He is survived by his wife and his four children (spouses) and six grandchildren. He has ten in-law siblings and numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a Memorial Service on May 14, 2025, at 1:00 at South Suburban Church, 7275 S. Broadway, 80122. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Samaritans Purse or charity of your choice. Herb’s burial will be in Elizabeth, CO.