Residents: The Late Stan Knowles 'Was One of the Best'

North Hampton lost one of the true shining pillars of its community with the recent passing of Stanley "Stan" Knowles, an irreplaceable and "caring" man, exceptional leader and "calming influence" that locals say had an immeasurable and profound impact on the community.

Knowles, 78, a longtime town official and conservation expert who served as Rockingham County forester, passed away on New Year's Day.

Knowles, for whom Knowles Field is named, was laid to rest Tuesday afternoon. Many locals told Patch that he'll be remembered and mourned for the countless good things he did for the community and the selfless way he helped out anyone in need.

"There are many good people in this town, and he was one of the best," said Selectman Phil Wilson.

Wilson said Knowles was a "very open, very thoughtful, very honest, very considerate" and "very generous" man who loved helping the town in various capacities above and beyond his duties as selectman and as a member of numerous North Hampton boards, including the Budget Committee, Conservation Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment and North Hampton Forever Committee, among others.

The volunteer firefighter and tree warden also played an instrumental role in the North Hampton Youth Association and served in various school and veteran roles in and around North Hampton.

While he was known for putting the "interests of the town and the people of the town above any personal interests," Knowles was also known for another infectious quality, according to Wilson.

"Stan also had a wonderful sense of humor," said Wilson, recalling numerous memories of his interactions with the man. "His laugh was something I'll never forget. It had this sort of — I don't know how to describe it. It was wonderful."

North Hampton's municipal offices closed down Tuesday afternoon in order for town employees, many of whom had a close connection with Knowles, to attend the late official's funeral services.

Town Clerk Sue Buchanan was among the many who had a close relationship with Knowles. Buchanan said Knowles' "caring attitude" and the way he was "always asking about how I was and how my family was" helped make him a welcomed friend and visitor to her office.

"The biggest thing [for which he'll be remembered] is how much he meant to the town and what he did for the town," said Buchanan. "I think all of us at the town will really miss him."

Town Administrator Paul Apple agreed.

"Stanley Knowles was a tireless servant of the citizens of North Hampton," he said. "His best memorial is for individuals who care about their community to get involved like he did and to serve their neighbors with wisdom and common sense. His passing is a cause for sadness, especially for those who worked with him for many years. It is also an opportunity for us to make or renew a commitment to the kind of service that he taught us to give."

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