Known affectionately as the unofficial mayor of Chestnut Knoll, resident Ernie Knechel recently celebrated a milestone birthday, turning 100 years young on July 14.
Knechel is a champion ambassador of the personal care community. He is most notable for sharing a kind word and gifting a Chestnut Knoll pen to anyone he meets on his walks throughout Boyertown.
Born in Harleysville, Montgomery County, he is one of five boys. Knechel met the love of his life, Millie, at age 17. They enjoyed 80 years together and were married for 77 years until her passing in 2023.
“It wasn’t long enough; we were still on our honeymoon!” he said.
They had five daughters. Before retiring, Knechel lived and worked on a farm in Alburtis, Lehigh County, and was, for a time, a painter.
His favorite hymn is Psalm 91, a comforting and powerful passage emphasizing God’s protection, faithfulness and deliverance for those who trust in Him.
Knechel credits his longevity to his strong faith and good family and would advise others younger than himself to “walk close to the Lord.”
He loves seafood, is quick with a joke and enjoys making people laugh. Those at Chestnut Knoll say Knechel keeps life interesting.
Chestnut Knoll said in a release that it wanted to give a special thanks to the State Theatre of Boyertown for lighting up the marquee in Knechel’s honor — he’s officially a star now!
Chestnut Knoll offers personal and memory care residences at an affordable month-to-month lease with no buy-in fees. Services include 24-hour personal care assistance with medical support, meals, housekeeping, social events and transportation. All residents have access to FOX Optimal Living, an evidence-based continuum of wellness and rehab services. U.S. News & World Report, in its Best Senior Living ratings, recognized Chestnut Knoll as “Best Assisted Living” for 2025. For more information, visit www.chestnutknoll.com.
