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Shirley Kay Knappenberger
1942 - 2022
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Shirley Knappenberger Obituary
November 24, 1942 - August 12, 2022
Olathe, Kansas - Shirley K. Knappenberger, found peace through her savior Jesus Christ where she will remain with Him eternally on August 12, 2022. Shirley was born to Joe and Darlene Lee on November 24, 1942, in Paola, KS. A graduate of Paola High School, she met Tom while working three jobs in Olathe and they married on December 14,1968. Together they built a veterinary practice while on a farm raising cattle, pigs, sheep, dogs and kids.
Her passion being her children and grandchildren.
She was much loved by her grandchildren. Shirley was a loving mother and devoted wife. She experienced much happiness attending grandchildren's events.
Shirley volunteered and was active in FCE, bunko, card groups, 4-H, extension Board, PEO, and other youth and community groups.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Joe Lee and Darlene (Pope) Lee and brother, David Lee. She leaves behind on this earth all of her
treasures; her husband Tom, daughter Linda, son- in-law Jeff, son Rex and daughter-in-law Shelly, son Todd, daughter-in-law Tricia, son Scott, daughter-in-law Nikki, and her crowning jewels, her grandchildren, Taylor, Cara, Bret, Zane, Emma, Tinley, Berk, and Elsie.
She is also survived by her sister-in-law Donna, brother Cliff, sister-in-law Sherry, sister Cindy, brother-in-law Mark as well as many nieces and nephews.
Hard work, passion, generosity and love defined her and she left a mark on all who had the honor of knowing her. She left this world better than she found it.
Her soul is with God but the amazing light that shined so bright will remain in our hearts eternally.
Visitation is August 16, 5-7pm at Penwell-Gabel in Olathe, KS.
Funeral service is August 17, 10am at St. Marks Lutheran Church in Olathe, KS. Shirley will be buried at Louisburg Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations welcomed to Olathe Hospice House or Mission Southside
To leave a message of condolence for Shirley's family, or to share a special memory of Shirley, please visit www.PenwellGabelKC.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Shirley Knappenberger
Sponsored by Kansas City Star.
Penelope S. Maurer
August 8, 2025
I saw Shirley the first time I brought my puppy in. She ran the clinic I mean all of it, her children and Tom. But in the most loving way. Then After Todd graduated I met Todd not as the boy I new that did his homework at the desk as an Vet. Between Tom and Todd and Rex Shirley had them all and love every minute of it. She was a wonderful Mother and Wife. I only hope someone can say that about me.
Mary Davis
September 4, 2022
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Shirley had the most beautiful smile and amazing gift of calming the most frantic pet owner, on the phone or in person. She will be missed by all who was fortunate enough meet her.
Tom Davies
August 22, 2022
Dear Knappenberger Family: May God be with Shirley. I will always remember her as a most loving and generous person. So proud of her family! Always took time to find out about ours. A truly nice person! May God comfort all of you in your time of great loss! But I am sure that she is shining her light and her love down on all of you, right now! God Bless you all!
Sally Foote Wilkins
August 17, 2022
I knew Shirley and her Paola family well. I have many fond memories of growing up with her. She will be missed by friends and family. My condolences to her family.
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Ota Alexander Roadhouse
August 17, 2022
It has been many years and I still recall Shirley's kindness and her beautiful smile. My condolences to her family and friends. Ota Alexander Roadhouse
Ota Alexander Roadhouse
August 17, 2022
Dear Friends and Family, Shirley was a wonderful person and I remember her beautiful smile. My condolences to her family and friends. May she rest in peace. Ota Alexander Roadhouse
Jim & Pene Maurer
August 16, 2022
I will share prayers for the whole family. Great lady, consider her and Tom friends, for they took care of all our horses (17), Dogs (13), and Cats (5), my husband and I. The Rex and Todd took over with their wonderful wifes and replaced what we have lost in Tom and Shirley.
We have great memories and will never forget them.
Lisa Mills
August 16, 2022
Todd, Tom & Knappenberger family -
I am so sorry for the loss of Shirley. She was a special lady. When I came into the vet office when she was still working, we would chat about so many different subjects. I enjoyed it very much. She will be missed dearly. Blessings for you all and prayers for strength in the coming days.
Nevin Waters
August 16, 2022
She was a great lady and will be missed. Prayers for you all.
Ryan and Heather Bragg
August 14, 2022
You are all in our thoughts and hearts during this very difficult time. We pray you can take some comfort in the beautiful memories of the love and times you shared together.
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Funeral services provided by:
Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions - Olathe14275 Black Bob Rd., Olathe, KS 66062
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