Knafla, Joseph P. Age 20 of Lindstrom On July 5, 2009 2007 Graduate Chisago Lake High School. Survived by Loving Parents Roy Knafla & Sherie (Jon) Westlund; Siblings Sarah Swenson, Travis Zornes, and Hannah Zornes; Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces, Nephews, and several loving friends including Special friend Gretchen Richter. Funeral Service 11:00AM Thursday, July 9, 2009 at Lakes Free Church, 29620 Olinda Trail, Lindstrom. Visitation 5-8PM Wednesday at Grandstrand Funeral Home, 11900 Lake Lane N., Lindstrom & one hour prior to service at church. Private Family Interment. Memorials Preferred. www.grandstrandfh.com 651-257-4000

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/twincities/obituary.aspx?n=joseph-p-knafla&pid=129376448

Joseph Patrick Knafla was born on November 19, 1988 at 6:04 a.m. at Mercy Medical Center in Coon Rapids, MN.

Joe is survived by his loving parents; Roy Knafla and Sherie (Jon) Westlund. Siblings; Sarah (Jeff) Swenson, Travis (Kari) Zornes, and Hannah Zornes. The love of his life, Gretchen Richter. His grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and his many friends.

Gentle giant, compassionate, honest, selfless, sense of humor, and adrenaline junkie are just a few ways to describe this devoted family and friend.

Joe spent a great amount of his time competing in basketball, soccer, and served as captain of the tennis team. Along with being a fierce competitor, he was a loyal team player. He lettered in all three sports and dreamed to go pro one day.

Joe gave back to the community by volunteering in the Chisago Lakes Youth Group at Lakes Free Church, in Lindstrom. Joe also enjoyed being an assistant for Chisago Lakes girl's tennis team.

While attending Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC, Joe was working towards a degree in exercise science. His activities included; tennis, ultimate frisbee, and a strict exercise program. While studying, Joe also forged many strong friendships.

Joe will be remembered by some as "sweet boy" and "big cousin" and to all for his large stature and big heart. His passion for sports, love for children and animals, breakfast of donuts and Mountain Dew, and his never-ending willingness to give large hugs and "I Love You's!"

Funeral service 11 a.m. Thursday July 9, at Lakes Free Church in Lindstrom. Visitation 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom.