Sr.Lea Marie Knochelmann

Sister Lea Marie was born on July 11, 1934, in Covington, Kentucky.  Her parents Carl and Marie Knochelmann, raised nine children, five boys and four girls; Esther was the sixth oldest. While attending both St. John School and Notre Dame Academy, Covington, she became inspired by the Sisters of Notre Dame. At the age of 17, she joined the Sisters of Notre Dame and made her profession of vows on August 25, 1954. Sister Lea Marie began her ministry in Covington, Kentucky, teaching third through fifth grades in several elementary schools and orphanages.  Sister continued her education at St. Francis Central School of Practical Nursing in Cincinnati, Ohio.  After completing her degree in 1960 as a Licensed Practical Nurse, Sister worked at St. Charles Care Center and St. Claire Regional Medical Center. In June, 1969, Sister Lea Marie obtained a certificate as an Occupational Therapy Assistant to further help her patients. She especially enjoyed assisting as podiatrist at St. Joseph Heights until her retirement in 2009. Sister Lea Marie stated that her health care ministry was a wonderful way for her to give love to others. Sister is preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Carl, John and Richard, and her sister Joan Means. Sister is survived by sisters Martha Bezold and Rose Ann Lankisch and brothers, David and Ed. Sister also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, November 28, 2016 at the Provincial Center, followed by the Wake Service at 5:00 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be at 7:00 p.m. in the convent chapel. Interment will follow 8:30 a.m. Mass on Thursday, December 1, 2016 in the convent cemetery. Memorials are suggested to: Sister’s of Notre Dame 1601 Dixie Highway Park Hills, KY 41011.