James M. McKniff, 84, lifelong resident of Eddystone died March 22, 2019 at the home of his daughter. Born in Eddystone, he was the son of the late Alexander J. and Margaret M. O'Brien McKniff.

James was a graduate of St. James High School, class of 1952 and was a member of St. Rose of Lima R.C. Church. He served in the US Navy during the Korean War and was a past Commander at the VFW Post #1521 in Chester. James was also a past Chaplain at the American Legion Post #844 in Eddystone. He was employed at the Philadelphia Naval Ship Yard as a Planner and Estimator for 35 years before retiring in 1990. James loved the shore, fishing, crabbing and enjoyed tinkering with electronics.

He was predeceased by his wife, Catherine D. Austin McKniff, who died August 29, 1998; and his brothers, Alexander J. McKniff, Jr. and William F. McKniff.

James was the father of Catherine "Cathy" Schafer (William), Margaret "Meg" Lipchock (George) and James McKniff, Jr.; brother of Sarah T. Klepacki; grandfather of Christopher Hunter (Gabrielle), Meghan Hunter (Jason Santana) and George Lipchock, Jr.; and great grandfather of Evelyn Santana.

Memorial Mass: 10:00 AM Friday, March 29, 2019 at St. Rose of Lima R.C. Church, 1901 Chester Pike, Eddystone, PA 19022, where relatives and friends may call from 8:45-9:45 AM.

Burial: Private

Memorial gifts may be made in memory of James M. McKniff, Coatesville Medical Center Voluntary Service #135, 1400 Blackhorse Hill Rd, Coatesville, PA 19320