1938 - 2026
Born in Needham, Massachusetts, Alice was the daughter of the late Donald B. Knowlton and Ila Jean (Myers) Knowlton. She attended Needham public schools, graduated from Needham High School, and later earned her associate’s degree from Newbury Junior College.
Throughout her life, Alice was deeply committed to helping others. She dedicated much of her time and energy advocating for special needs children and supporting society’s less fortunate. Her compassion and strong sense of social responsibility guided both her personal and professional life.
Alice was a passionate supporter of social services and Democratic Party policies focused on assisting vulnerable communities. She also worked as an accountant for a social services organization, combining her professional skills with her lifelong commitment to helping others.
She is survived by her children: Marie Palomares and her husband William of Milford; Wayne Semmel and his wife Robin of Oregon; Brian Semmel and his wife Kathy of Vermont; and Henry Semmel of New Hampshire.
She also leaves behind her grandchildren Joshua Palomares, Tyler Semmel, Tracy Semmel, Kara Semmel, and Jessica Semmel.
Alice was predeceased by her son Paul A. Semmel and her grandson William A. Palomares.
She will be remembered for her compassion, advocacy, generosity, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others.
