Clarksville Resident Henry Knake, III Dies at 76

First Sergeant (Ret.) served 20 years in the U.S. Army, including three tours in Vietnam

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Henry Frederick Ernest Knake, III, a longtime Clarksville, Tennessee resident, passed away on February 3, 2026 at the age of 76. Knake retired from the U.S. Army in 1976 after 20 years of service, including three tours in Vietnam. After retiring from the military, he worked a variety of jobs before graduating with an associate degree from Austin Peay State University and teaching welding classes. Knake was also an active volunteer with the National Weather Service's Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network.

Why it matters

Knake's passing marks the end of an era for Clarksville, as he was a respected veteran, educator, and community volunteer who dedicated much of his life to serving others. His story highlights the contributions of those who have served in the U.S. military and the lasting impact they can have on their local communities.

The details

Knake is survived by his wife of 64 years, Glenda Maness Knake, his daughter Wendy Osborne, son Jason Knake, five grandchildren, and one great-grandson. After retiring from the Army, Knake worked for several companies before starting his own welding business, which he operated until 2003. He was also an active volunteer with the National Weather Service's Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network, reporting daily observations from his Clarksville station, which was the longest-running in Montgomery County.

  • Knake retired from the U.S. Army in 1976 after 20 years of service.
  • He started his own welding business, Henry's Custom Welding, in 2003 and operated it until his retirement.
  • Knake has been a volunteer with the National Weather Service's Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network since the program came to Tennessee in 2007.
  • Knake passed away on February 3, 2026 at the age of 76.
  • A Celebration of Life will be held on February 16, 2026 at Sykes Funeral Home in Clarksville.

The players

Henry Frederick Ernest Knake, III

A longtime resident of Clarksville, Tennessee who served 20 years in the U.S. Army, including three tours in Vietnam, before retiring in 1976 and working a variety of jobs, including operating his own welding business.

Glenda Maness Knake

Henry Knake's wife of 64 years.

Wendy Osborne

Henry Knake's daughter.

Jason Knake

Henry Knake's son.

Sykes Funeral Home

The funeral home hosting the Celebration of Life for Henry Knake.

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What’s next

The Celebration of Life for Henry Knake will be held on February 16, 2026 at Sykes Funeral Home in Clarksville.

The takeaway

Henry Knake's life exemplified the values of service, community, and dedication that are so important in Clarksville. His passing is a loss for the city, but his legacy of volunteerism and commitment to education will continue to inspire others.