Maryland - Dr. John D. Knell, 65, of Rockville, MD died unexpectedly on Sunday, November 28, 2010 at Hartford Hospital. He was born June 6, 1945 in Meriden a son of Ann (Houdlete) Disbrow of Meriden and the late Lt.David Knell. John grew up in Meriden and attended local schools. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts and the University of Florida and then received his Phd. from Baylor University. John was a doctor of Biotechnology for Novavax Inc. He was an avid photographer which he had won several awards for, and loved playing the classical guitar. In addition to his mother, Ann he is survived by his step-father, Curtis Disbrow of Meriden, two brothers; Steve and his wife Nancy Disbrow of Meriden and James Disbrow also of Meriden. He also leaves several aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins. A funeral will be held on Friday, December 3, 2010 at 10:00am at the Beecher & Bennett-Flatow Funeral Home, 48 Cook Ave., Meriden. The Rev. John Clarke will officiate. Burial will follow at Walnut Grove Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 9-10am, prior to the service.