Jean Knierim

Born Dorothy Jean Wainwright on October 27, 1942 in Visalia, California, to A.Q. and Frances Wainwright, Jean lived a life filled with love, learning and service.

In 1960, she attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where she met the love of her life, a New Yorker named Herbert Knierim. The two were married in April 1961, and later that year, they welcomed their daughter. Together, Jean and Herb built a life rich in love and adventure.

A lifelong learner, Jean earned her Associate’s degree from Napa Community College and later completed her Bachelor’s degree at Fresno Pacific University. After Herb’s passing, Jean moved to Idaho to be closer to her daughter and granddaughter, embracing a new chapter with grace and purpose.

In Idaho, Jean found joy in quilting, where she was warmly welcomed by a lovely group of ladies at Country Pine Piecemakers. She also pursued her calling in ministry, completing Seminary training to become an ordained chaplain. Her greatest joy and sense of identity came from her role as Police Chaplain for the Moscow Police Department, where she served with compassion and unwavering dedication. She loved her officers deeply and was known for her ability to minister to the unique needs of the department with wisdom, strength, and heart.

Jean is survived by her beloved daughter, Laurie (Bob) Ames, and cherished granddaughters, Morgan (Lloyd) DuPont and Meghan (TJ) Gaia, who were the light of her life. She also leaves behind six adored great-grandchildren: Olivia, Paisley, Sawyer, and Tessa DuPont, and Jameson and Maverick Gaia. Jean is also survived by her sister, Nancy (Gary) Junk, niece Lisa (Jodie) McDaniel, and nephew Greg (Sarah) Junk.

A Celebration of Life ceremony, where family, friends, and members of the community are invited to celebrate Jean’s life and honor her memory is currently being finalized. Please check back for soon for the time and date.

The family requests that any donations can be made in Jean's memory to the International Conference of Police Chaplains at https://www.icpcchaplains.org/home which was an organization she supported and personally benefited from the education and fellowship.

Jean will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her warm heart, and her deep love for her family and community. Her presence was a blessing, and her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched.