Edward Leroy Knapp, 87, entered the gates of heaven on Monday, September 11, 2023. He passed away in Burlington, Wisconsin, with his family by his side. Edward was born February 25, 1936 in Fontana, Wisconsin to John H. and Katherine R. (Meis) Knapp.
Edward was known to his friends and family as a humble man with a quiet spirit and strong work ethic. He grew up in Walworth, Wisconsin and played football at Walworth High School. After graduating in 1954, he joined the Army Reserves. Edward built wooden boats while working for Melges and later became a caretaker for many Geneva Lake properties. His longest running career was within the electroplating industry.
At the age of 23, Edward made Jesus his Lord and this event turned his life around. He loved sharing his favorite Bible verse with others: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)
Edward was devoted to serving in his church but his primary ministry was to his own family. Any visitor to Ed’s home quickly discovered his top priorities. For example, before blessing the meal he might ask those around the table, “Have I ever told you how much I love my wife?” A devoted father, he earnestly prayed for his children even after they became adults and left home.
Long after the work-day was done, Edward would toil away in the garage or garden. He couldn’t help passing this work ethic onto his kids, as his philosophy regarding chores was, “If we all work together, then we will have time to do fun things together.” He didn’t ask anything of others that he wasn’t willing to do himself.
Edward is survived by his wife Gail F. (Fish) Knapp, whom he married July 4, 1959 in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin; his children, Renee (Daniel) Liljegren, JoEtta (Carl) Simmerman, and Edward (Rachel) Knapp; grandchildren William, Bruce, Erica, Charles, Chad, Bethany, Daniel, Matthew, and Carissa; 18 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; sisters Mary and Linda; and brother, John.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Katherine Knapp, two brothers, Tom and Roger, and his daughter, Rebecca.
A visitation will be held on Monday, September 18 at Lighthouse Church, W5502 Hwy 67, Walworth, Wisconsin from 11:00 AM until the time of service at 1:00 PM. The graveside burial will follow at Roselawn Memory Gardens.
For more information, contact Toynton Funeral Home at 262-275-2171.
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