he was a son of the late Horton J. and Bertha (Wetmore) Crosby. Knowles was a Flight Lieutenant in the R.C.A.F. He served overseas 1941-1945 completing 37 missions over Europe as a wireless operator on Wellingtons 419 Squadron and Lancasters 432 Squadron. On his 29th mission the plane was badly damaged and Knowles received the Distinguished Flying Medal for his bravery. He later served as Squadron Signals Officer for 432. He returned to Canada and served on a "Special Cases Board" in Ottawa. After leaving the Air Force, he served as an inspector with the Provincial Department of Fisheries. He later joined with his wife as owners of Crosby's Florist for 35 years. Knowles was an avid curler and golfer and enjoyed bridge. He was past president of the Yarmouth Curling Club, charter member of the Lions Club, a member of the Y's Men's Club, member of the South West Air Forces Association and a member of the Port Maitland Royal Canadian Legion.

He is survived by his wife, Elsie (Blakeman) W.A.A.F., who he met and married in England; son, Derek (Barbara), Centre Burlington; daughter, Debra, Halifax; sister, Seddie (Balser), Conway; brother, Ralph, Port Colborne; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers, Vernon, Edgar, Robert and Donald; sister, Bertha Ellis. Memorial service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 21, in Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Yarmouth, followed by a reception in the church hall, Father MacAllister Ellis officiating.

Interment will be held in Yarmouth Mountain Cemetery in the spring. Funeral arrangements under the direction of Sweeny's Funeral Home, Yarmouth. Memorial donations may be made to the Yarmouth S.P.C.A. or Yarmouth Regional Hospital Foundation. On-line condolences to: [email protected]