Iona Lee Knipl

Iona Lee Knipl, age 86, passed away on November 11, 2026. Iona was born on November 22, 1939, to the late Henry and Winifred Knipl. Iona is survived by her beloved children Kelvin (Kathy Sharrett-Knipl), Tim, and Doris Knipl (Monica); her cherished grandchildren, Laina Morcom (Joshua), Lacy Sharrett, Kelvin Knipl Jr (Samantha), Koleman Knipl, Tim Knipl Jr, and Lauren Morosko (Damon); 11 great grandchildren; and brothers and sisters Jackie McGraw (Mike), Kathy Buschur, Vesta Moss, Dana Knipl, Patty Hajek (Don), and Curtis Knipl (Shirley). She was preceded in death by her siblings Henry Knipl, Verna Dickey, Keith Knipl, and baby girl Knipl.

Iona worked for 55 years at the restaurant located at 9261 Norwalk Rd, Litchfield OH. It actually had four different names while she worked there: Patsy’s, D&H Truck Stop, Casteel’s and the current name, The Hungry Bear. It has always been known to our family as the Truck Stop. She loved her dogs Candy and Angel and cared for them as if they were her fourth and fifth children. She was a devoted Cleveland Indians fan and were the Indians to her even after they changed names. The one thing she loved more than the Cleveland baseball was her Pepsi. Anyone that knew her, knew Pepsi was her drink of choice. It is amazing how much toughness God fit into such a small person. She will be deeply missed by many.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, from 5pm to 7pm at Waite Funeral Home in Medina, Ohio. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.waitefuneralhome.com.