Neal Knights, age 82, of Owatonna, died Thursday, September 24, 2015 at Sterling House in Owatonna. Neal Knights was born December 19, 1932, in Fonda, Iowa, to Rolla and Sylvia (Brown) Knights. Neal served in the US Army in Korea and obtained a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from South Dakota State University in 1963. He married Sharon (Erie) Knights on May 19, 1955 He is survived by four children, Diane Knights, Lisa Knights, Chris Knights, and Ted (Jen) Knights; two grandchildren, Arlo and Mae Knights; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by wife, Sharon Knights; parents; and eight brothers and sisters. Neal was known for his participation in Kiwanis in Owatonna, especially the Key Club, as well as Big Brothers/Big Sisters and the Village of Yesteryear - Steele County Historical Society. He was an extraordinarily good candy maker known for his caramels and fudges especially, and it was not uncommon to find him in his kitchen with 10-12 people who wanted to learn how to make caramels like he did. In his spare time he rebuilt and fixed bicycles for underprivileged kids and loved to golf, fish, spend time with his cat, and play cards. Neal and Sharon were both excellent card players and enjoyed playing with their children and friends-�they were a formidable team when playing 500 together. As a volunteer at the Village of Yesteryear he spent many Christmas seasons playing Santa Claus, and helped spread the Christmas cheer around Owatonna by dressing up as Santa Claus to personally deliver presents to children in their homes on Christmas Eve. A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 10, at Michaelson Funeral Home at 11:00 am with Pastor Loren Olson officiating. Visitation will be held at 10:00 am at the funeral home. Memorial gifts may be directed to Village of Yesteryear. Visitation: 10/10/2015 10:00 10/10/2015 11:00 Service: 10/10/2015 11:00