Leon Wayne Knori

In Loving Memory of Leon Wayne Knori

October 5, 1943 – August 4, 2026

Leon Wayne Knori, 82, of Perry, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, in his home.

Leon was born on October 5, 1943, to Wayne F. and Helen E. Knori. He was a lifelong Oklahoman whose love for agriculture, cattle, and the land shaped much of his life.

After graduating from Oklahoma State University, Leon began his career in Dodge City as a County Extension Agent. His love and extensive knowledge of cattle led him through various positions in the cattle industry before bringing him back to Oklahoma State University. There, he served as the North Range Herdsman for 31 years, retiring in 2001.

Leon’s greatest joys extended beyond his career. He loved ranching and spending time with the land, but above all, he treasured his family.

Leon married Mary Louise Duffle in 1967. This union produced three children; Matt, David, and Amy. Leon later met and married Ruth Irene Watt Pinney who remained by his side throughout their life together for nearly 40 years. In this union he gained two more children; Steven and Angela.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth; children: Matt (Shelby) Knori, David (Amy) Knori, Amy (Derek) Hoff, Steven Pinney, and Angela (Jon) Roberts; grandchildren: Lauren, Gage, Kylie, Jaxon, Emily, Zach, Chelsea, and Crystal; great-grandchildren: Kalli, Reese, and Ryan; and his sister, Sandra Cockrum; along with numerous extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Shirley and Ellen; and brother Sam.

Leon was not a man of many words, but those who knew him knew that a chuckle and an “Oh boy” could say more than words ever could. His quiet nature, contagious smile, knowledge of cattle, love of ranching, and devotion to his family will be deeply missed.

His family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Luminos Hospice, Southern Oaks Care Center, and Darren Mosher for the love, compassion, and care they provided to Leon and his family.

Visitation will be held from 2:00–6:00 p.m. Sunday, August 16, at Dighton-Marler Funeral Home in Perry, with the family available to receive friends from 4:00–6:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 17, at Perry First Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Grace Hill Cemetery.

Leon leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a family who loved him dearly, and a legacy rooted in family, hard work, cattle, and Oklahoma State University. Though he may not have said much, his presence spoke volumes—and he will be greatly missed.

Condolences may be sent to the family via an online guestbook at www.dightonmarler.com.