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Dalton and Elaine Knauss Foundation Logo. The logo is an image of a cross with a heart forming the 'D' in the name Dalton.

Our 
Story

An elderly caucasion couple sits next to one another in mobility devices in a grassy front yard. They are holding hands and smiling joyfully at the camera.

Founders: Dalton and Elaine Knauss

DEK Foundation History

Dalton and Elaine Knauss always held a deep-rooted passion for giving and helping others. They were known for their willingness to help those in need, support missionaries, provide educational opportunities, and more. In 1998, they decided to formalize their efforts and created the Dalton and Elaine Knauss Foundation, also known as the DEK Foundation. Their mission statement then is the same as it is today: "The Dalton and Elaine Knauss Foundation is a private Christian foundation which works to support areas of education, evangelism, family issues, and acts of mercy." Since its inception, DEK has given to nearly 100 different non-profits all around the world. 

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DEK Foundation Today

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In 2021, Dalton Knauss passed away after 93 wonderful years of life. To learn more about his life, click here. His bride of over 70 years, Elaine, followed him just 11 months later. Learn about her life by clicking here. The remaining board members are committed to continuing the legacy that Dalton and Elaine began. Keep scrolling to meet our Board of Directors. 

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The Dalton & Elaine Knauss Foundation is registered as a non-profit with a 501(c)3

86-0931606

Board of Directors

Our board of directors shares the same passion for giving that inspired Dalton and Elaine to first begin the foundation. We're proud to continue the legacy!

Bill Knauss - a smiling caucasion man in his 60s. He is standing outside with his arms crossed. Behind him is lush greenery. He is wearing small eyeglasses, and a blue floral button down shirt.

Chairman

William Knauss

Bill was born in Illinois but considers himself an Arizona native after moving to the valley when he was 1 year old. He grew up in Scottsdale with his parents and older sister. Bill has been married to Marilyn for 42 years and they have two daughters.

 

Bill spent most of his career in the semiconductor industry. He is now mostly retired. These days, Bill enjoys playing music (guitar and ukulele) and singing at every possible opportunity. He is proud and honored to be able to continue his parents’ passion for giving as the current Chair of the DEK Foundation.

Cynthia Knauss-Konija. A caucasian woman in her 60s smiles at the camera. She is wearing tinted glasses. She has blonde hair and dangly earrings. She is wearing a square neck blouse with red and blue geometric patterns.

Vice President

Cynthia Knauss-Konija

Cynthia refers to herself as "nearly native," having arrived in Arizona at age 4. She earned her B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University. Cynthia worked in the field of journalism before moving into marketing. She and her husband Jim are now retired, and enjoy traveling when they are not at home in Fountain Hills. Cynthia is humbled and grateful to be able to continue what her parents started. 

Marissa Knauss Carey. A caucasian woman in her early 40s smiles joyfully at the camera. She has shoulder length brown hair. She is wearing pearl cluster earrings and a floral dress. She has her hands on her hips and is leaning slightly towards the camera. Behind her is lush greenery.

Mission Compliance Officer

Marissa Knauss Carey

Marissa is from Arizona, but now resides in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. She lives with her husband and their three kids. She is an avid gluten-free foodie, lover of travel, and thinks hiking is one of the best ways to experience a new place. She is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. In addition to her role for DEK, she's a talented photographer.

Tamara Hill. She is a caucasian woman in her 50s. She has red hair and is smiling joyfully at the camera. She is wearing a black button down blouse with long sleeves. Her arms are crossed across her chest, and there is lush greenery behind her.

Treasurer

Tamara Hill

Tamara is an Arizona native, currently residing in the suburbs of Phoenix. She earned her B.S. in Business and went on to work in property management. Tamara now brings her skills to DEK, serving as treasurer. She enjoys technology, reading, and supporting the local professional sports teams. 

Sara Mersek. A caucasian woman in her 30s smiles joyfully at the camera. She has long brown hair that flows over both shoulders in curls. She is wearing a teal polka dot dress, and has one arm crossing her body holding her other arm. Behind her is lush greenery.

Secretary

Sara Mersek

Sara is a proud Arizona native who thinks there's no place more beautiful than the desert! She lives in Phoenix with her husband and their four children. She enjoys hiking the local trails, playing music, and reading good books. In addition to her role with DEK, she works in the marketing industry. 

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