Byron Thomas (Tom) Knight II passed to his eternal rest on Friday, March 4th, 2011 at home. Tom was a native Californian, born in Huntington Park on March 8th, 1929, to Byron Thomas Knight I and Edna Sanderson Knight. Tom was a child of the depression and in turn had been a self motivated businessman at a very young age. Known to his family, friends and customers as Sunny Boy he would shine shoes and sell newspapers on the city streets where he lived. After graduating High School, Tom served his country during world war II in the U.S. Navy. When he returned home, he attended Pasadena City College. After collage Tom started work at Adam's Ambulance and met his future wife Virginia Moore at Tweedy Medical Group. Tom married Virginia Moore Knight his wife of 52 years on November 21st, 1958. Living in Southern California, they had three children, Byron Thomas III, David Allen and June Elaine. Tom opened a Beauty Shop in Lynwood California named, "Beauty By Knight" and then opened a fire extinguisher business called, "Dragon Fire". In 1972 the Knights moved to Atascadero where Tom again opened another fire extinguisher company called "Knights Fire" and yet again another in Paso Robles called "North County Fire Protection". After retiring from Self employment Tom worked for Atascadero Unified School District, that being his last retirement. Tom was a most honorable man and will be missed by all who knew and loved him for his great sense of humor. Ever the quick wit, Tom was always ready with a humorous remark and loved to tell jokes. He was an avid sports fan and a strong supporter of Atascadero High School sports. He loved to meet up with his friends at a local restaurant for coffee. Tom was a talented oil painter, artist and potter. He was a brown belt in Shotokan Karate, active in Cub Scouts and Indian Guides and both boys and girls little league. He was always up for a good game of poker. Tom enjoyed Motorcycle Races, Nascar Racing, Boxing, and Collage Basketball. He loved woodworking in Chelsea's shop and Volkswagen restoration. He was the inventor of the One Runner Snow Sled. He was a former member of the Lion's Club and Elk's Club.
Tom is survived by his wife Virginia, the love of his life. His son, Byron (Maria), son David and daughter June (Robert); Grandchildren Chelsea Haskins, Michelle Knight, Byron Thomas Knight IV. His grandchildren will always have fond memories of his wonderful magic and card tricks. Tom is also survived by his aunt Ruth Knight, cousin Corliss Thomas, her children. His faithful dog Sarah and his many beloved friends. Grave side services will be held Saturday, March 12th, 2011 at Atascadero Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Atascadero Bible Church.