Roy A. Kneipfer

Mr. Roy A. Kneipfer, 87, of West Road, Adams, a longtime Adams businessman and firefighter, died Friday evening at Laurel Lake Center in Lee, MA. He was born in Adams on July 18, 1918, son of the late Arthur and Freida (Haase) Kneipfer, and attended Adams schools. Mr. Kneipfer was the proprietor of the former Kneipfer's Tire and Battery Shop on Spring St. in Adams. Formerly owned by his uncle, it was one of the first establishments in Northern Berkshire to cater to the needs of the new horseless carriage. His store was also one of the first stores in North Berkshire to sell and repair bicycles. Because of his expertise and joking manner, he became known throughout the town as the man who fixes bikes, many times saying "no charge". He closed the business in 1964. He was a longtime member of the Alert Hose Company in Adams, joining at the age of 31. He was elected Foreman of the Company on August 7, 1962, and would often close his business to run to the firehouse in order to save lives. He was a member and deacon of the First Congregational Church in Adams, where he served as chairman of its Finance Committee, and was a member of its Prudential Committee and Choir. He was also a member of Adams Lodge 1335 Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and Berkshire Lodge of Masons of Adams. He will be remembered for his gregarious spirit, quick wit, exceptional ballroom dancing with his wife, joking with his grandsons, and putting his family first everyday of his life. His wife, the former Dena Delmolino, whom he married on July 20, 1940, died on March 9, 2003. He is survived by 1 Son - Ronald Kneipfer and his wife, Virginia, of Narragansett, Rhode Island; 1 Daughter - Karen Rousseau and her husband, Tony, of Hinsdale, MA; 4 Grandsons - Jeff and Eric Kneipfer and Chris and Scott Rousseau; 4 Great Granddaughters - Amanda, Emily and Abby Kneipfer and Bethany Rousseau; And his granddaughters-in-law - Lesley Kneipfer and Maryellen Rousseau. Funeral services will be private, followed by burial in Bellevue Cemetery, Adams. There are no calling hours. Memorial donations may be made to the Alert Hose Company through the AUGE-PACIOREK-SIMMONS Funeral Home, 13 Hoosac St. Adams, MA 01220, which is in charge of arrangements.

Roy A. Kneipfer

July 18, 1918 - November 11, 2005