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John Knipe Obituary
John P. Knipe age 46 of Bethlehem died Tuesday September 5, 2006. He was the husband of Colette (Mikolinis) and they celebrated their 23rd wedding anniversary last October 9. He was born in Fountain Hill to the late Edward and Caroline (Ortwein) Knipe. John was a U.S. Postal Service employee for 26 years. He also attended Shippensburg University where he pitched in the College World Series. John was a coach for the softball and baseball little leagues in Fountain Hill, the Connie Mack baseball team in Fountain Hill for four years, the C.Y.O. of St. Anne High School varsity and J.V. Basketball teams, AAU Boys and Girls basketball this past summer, North Central Softball winning at the 2nd District Championships and the 13 year-olds basketball team, winning second place at the Keystone State Games. John was an assistant coach for Bethlehem Catholic High school girls basketball freshmen, J.V. and varsity teams. He was an assistant manager for the Patriot Mens Softball Fast Pitch League. He was the assistant coach for the Bethlehem Catholic High School J.V. softball team this past year. He was also the vice president and coached C.Y.O Basketball boys and girls teams through 8th grade, Holy Child Flag Football teams 4-6th grade and Academic Bowl for 7th and 8th grade. Survivors: He will be sadly missed by his entire family, wife Colette of Bethlehem; sons, Justin J. at Penn State University and Joshua J. and daughter Brianna E. both at home, and his brother and two sisters. Services: Visitation hours will be Sunday September 10 from 2-5 p.m. at Downing Funeral Home, Inc. 1002 W. Broad St. Bethlehem. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Monday September 11 at St. Anne Catholic Church, Easton and Washington avenues, Bethlehem. Contributions: may be made to the Knipe Childrens College Fund in care of his wife Colette 926 Johnston Dr., Bethlehem, PA 18017
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Memories and Condolences
for John Knipe
John Serman
September 21, 2006
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Margaret and Jerry Janci
September 16, 2006
During this very sad time, we wish to offer our deepest sympathy to the entire Knipe family. Both of us worked with John for many years at the Allentown Post Office and remember those years fondly. May the memories of the good times support you at this time of your great loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Take Care.
pam gibat
September 15, 2006
to the knipe family: we wish to express great sorrow for your loss.
john was always kind to our son, kenny and he will be greatly missed. you are all in our prayers
Brenda Taylor
September 14, 2006
Colette,
It has been 18 years since we moved away and last saw you, but I want to send our deepest condolences to you and your family. I can still picture a bunch of us from SLH, after work
sharing a pitcher at Staley's.... Reading about John- you, Justin,Joshua and Brianna should be proud of John and all his athletic involvements and love for his family. He influenced many people- kids and adults in a positive way. I hope these are the memories that you and your family will keep in your heart and mind
Thinking of you,
Brenda (Murphy) Taylor
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Douglas Stewart
September 13, 2006
I am sorry for your loss. I only have fond memories of John.
Michele Mair
September 12, 2006
Dear Collete & Family
Our hearts go out to all of you.
We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. We know the saddess and pain that you feel.
I will call you.
Sincerely,
Michele, Evan and Ryan Mair
Chris & Tara Abel
September 11, 2006
Colette&Family,
Our thoughts are with you, John was a huge influence with our daughter
Amber who played under him with the Girls 2005 NC softball allstars. He will be greatly missed and always remembered.
The Abel Family
Stacy Probasco
September 11, 2006
Colette and family,
I have worked with John for the past 20 years and he spoke very highly of his family. He talked about his children all the time and like a true parent even bragged a bit. He will be missed dearly. Just remember John is with God and God is with all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
September 10, 2006
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Sue Worman
September 10, 2006
Colette,
My deepest sympathy to you and your children.
Sue Worman
Maureen Kelly-Rudesill
September 10, 2006
Collette and Children...John was my first cousin. Collette I met you (only once) when I was 18 years old when I flew East to stay with Aunt Caroline. I remember you being so full of humor and John always laughing at you! I am very saddened by the news. May you all pull together and find strength in one another and in God.
Maureen Kelly Rudesill, Mission Viejo, Ca.
STEVE NEWHALL
September 10, 2006
COLLETTE, JUSTIN, BRIANNA AND JOSH
I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT JOHN.
HE WAS A GREAT GUY AND WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED.
sammi lohr
September 9, 2006
Bri...im sorry babe...your in my prayers always...love ya!
sammi and dan
Co-worker USPS
September 9, 2006
In such a sad time all I can do is look back at how great of a person John was and still is, in my heart. He was more than just a fellow employee to me. John was the kind of person that could turn a horrible day around. He knew how much I did not like being pregnant, yet he made me realize what was growing inside me and how my life was going to change (for the better)_John was so proud of all three of his children.He lit up like you could not even image everytime he talked about one of them, which was everyday. He always told me to fight through my problems in marriage because his wife was his everything. I am truly sorry that such a great person had to leave this earth so quickly. I will have all of you in my prayers for a long time. I am sorry for your loss, but please remember he was your husband, and your father and he loved you more than words can explain.
Bob Xander
September 9, 2006
Collette and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. John will be greatly missed. I always enjoyed being part of the softball family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bob and Jean Xander and Family
Jeff Hess
September 9, 2006
Dear Colette and family,
Steph and I are so sorry to hear about Johnny. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God, who can do all things be with you, and comfort you during this most difficult time.
Jeff and Steph Hess
Corron/ Lapp Family
September 8, 2006
Dear Knipe Family,
We want to send out our sympathy and our prayers to all of you. We got to know you through NCLL.
Louis(Lou)& Tabetha Corron
Branden(LAPPY) and Briana Lapp
September 8, 2006
To Colette, Justin, Bri, and my Godson Joshy.
Know in your hearts that I have many, many, many great memories with John. Although neither one of us could possibly remember being born, just 3 weeks apart, and right next door to one another, we certainly were devastated when his family decided to move....all the way across the street when we were just 4 or 5. Little league, Jr. and Sr. Legion, adolescence and High School years. Double dating (my girls were always prettier). "Borrowing" his dad's beer, and thinking he never knew it. Our time together at Shippensburg State College. Our marriages (2 for me), and I will always remember our great trips to the beach every summer with all the kids along. Many, many softball memories! If there is a team in heaven, John's probably the coach.
And though we drifted apart recently, John will always be my lifelong buddy. I've missed him these past few years and now will miss him forever.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
#23
ELI AND JOSE CRUZ
September 8, 2006
TO THE KNIPE FAMILY:WE ARE SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR LOSS AND WE WILL KEEP YOU ALL IN OUR PRAYERS. COACH KNIPE HELPED ORLANDO IN HIS FIRST YEARS AT NCLL WITH THE YANKEES AND WE WILL NEVER FORGET THAT EXPERIENCE OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL. THE CRUZ FAMILY
Uncle Andy & Aunt Theresa
September 8, 2006
Colette:
You and your children are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
Tony Sellitti
September 8, 2006
Colette and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Our family shared alot a great memories today that you and John provided throughout the years, both on the field and off. God Bless. The Sellitti Family
Janet Dapkiewicz
September 8, 2006
Dear Colette, Justin, Brianna, and Joshua: We were deeply saddened to hear about John. Because of him, Meg has wonderful memories from the softball field that will forever stay with her. Rebels will always rock! Our prayers are with you - Janet, Steve, and Meg
TERRI McANDREW RN
September 8, 2006
Dear Collette So sorry to hear about your loss, you and your children will be in my thoughts and prayers at this time. God Bless All of You. Sincerely,
Ilona Eckert
September 8, 2006
Colette and kids,
I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. Take care of each other.
Kathy Silva
September 7, 2006
Dear Knipe Family:
We don't know you well but our kids went to Holy Child while your children were there. We want to send our deepest sympathy to you on the loss of your husband and father. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Kathy, Jack, Claire and Anthony Silva
Dylan Sauerwein
September 7, 2006
To the Knipe family,
John Knipe was one of the best coaches i ever had ,he had tought me a lot of stuff in baseball and i will always remember him .But baseball won't be the same when theres not him there telling me something or reminding me to to this or that he was a lot of help in my life
Dylan Sauerwein
Kim Sauerwein
September 7, 2006
Colette and Family
We feel your loss, We will miss John, He was a great Guy and Friend.
We are glad we had the chance to have known him through North central baseball, the fourth of July and Long Inland ice teas will not be the same.So he will never be forgotten in this family.
Dan and Kim Sauerwein,
Dylan, Sierra and Katie
Michelle Stillman
September 7, 2006
Dear Colette and Family,
I am at a complete loss of words and extremely saddened about the sudden and untimely loss of John. I will always cherish the fond memories of our younger days working at the hospital. You have my deepest sympathy. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow.
Love,
Michelle (Pastir) Stillman
Suzanne Perry Bachman
September 7, 2006
Dear Colette,
I am very sorry to hear of your great loss and am thinking of you a lot.
Jonathan Bond
September 7, 2006
Dear Knipe Family, The loss of John is deeply felt in the hearts of my family and I. John was a fellow coworker of mine and worked right next to me for approx. 6 yrs & knew him for 9 yrs. John always talked about how proud he was of his kids and how much he loves his wife even through the very toughest times. He is sadly missed and I grieve your loss. Turn to God's Word for your answers. Love Jonathan Bond and Family.
Devon Knipe
September 7, 2006
Dear Josh,
Sorry to hear about your dad.
Hope to see you some time soon at dances.
God Bless you and your family.
From your cousin,
Devon Knipe
LISA (BROUGHTON)GRIFFITH
September 7, 2006
COLETTE AND FAMILY,WE ARE SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR LOSS OF JOHN.PLEASE LET US KNOW ITH THERE IS ANYTHING WE CAN DO TO HELP AT THIS TIME.LISA,JEFF AND MICHAEL
Nina Piccione
September 7, 2006
To a wonderful family that I met through basketball...may God be with you and keep you all strong. My deepest regards and sympathies-
janet gross
September 7, 2006
Dear Collette and Family: May God give you all the strength you need. John will be greatly missed. We've all been given the grace of knowing him and cherish all the memories he gave to us all, ones that I know my daughter will NEVER forget.
May peace be with you all, and God Bless. Janet, Ed and Jessica Gross
Erin Butkowski
September 7, 2006
Dear Knipe family,
Mr. Knipe was an amazing person, but I'm sure you already knew that. From the basketball court to the softball field, he has helped me in many ways. I am so sorry to hear of his passing and please know that you are in my prayers.
Lisa Walker
September 7, 2006
I have fond memories of growing up with John, James, Mary and Ann and will always cherish those happy times. Love Lisa (cousin)
Karen Kelly-Jones
September 7, 2006
To Colette and Family, James, Ann and Mary K,
News of John's passing is so sad. I am deeply, deeply sorry for your loss. What has brought me comfort is to know that John is with his mother and father, both of his Nanas and all of his aunts...including my mother.
Peace to all of you,
Your cousin,
Karen Kelly-Jones
Kevin Kelly
September 7, 2006
John was a first cousin of mine. Growing up in Bethlehem back in the early 60's our families spent much time together. Colette, we never really knew each other. I was at your wedding and that was the last time I saw you and John. I am so truly sorry for the loss of John you and your children are going through.
Our deepest condolences go out to you and your family.
Baumann Family
September 7, 2006
Knipe Family,
your in our thoughts and prayers,
god bless you all. Mr. knipe was a good man who will be missed greatly
i love you brianna
stay strong, i'm always here
- laura
Michael Jasso
September 7, 2006
My heart goes to the Knipe family. Mr.(coach) Knipe was a great man and was a mentor in my earlier school years. He was an inspiration to me on and off the court.
Chris and Maureen Cope
September 7, 2006
Maureen and I send our deepest condolences to Colette, Justin, Bri, and Joshua (aka Hammer). John will be remembered and missed by those who have known him. My memories begin when he roamed centerfield for the Hot Shots fastpitch softball team and eventually came and played for our newly created Scheresville team. I’ll never forget his confidence in me as a pitcher when he began coaching that team just a few years later. He leaves his former teammates with many lasting memories. I’m pretty certain there may not be another leadoff third basemen that wears his wife’s lipstick lip marks on his cheek as a good luck symbol. As a team we enjoyed many league and playoff championships with John as a coach and teammate. Softball was a love of John’s but I know his family was always at the forefront. He always boasted about the many achievements that his children attained. The most recent that I talked to him about was Bri’s freshman softball player of the year award. He was so proud of all of you and our prayers and thoughts will be with you always.
Gina Lucente-Kostic
September 7, 2006
I am sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jim McCauley
September 7, 2006
Colette & Family,
I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.
Shannon Newhall
September 7, 2006
Dear Colette and Family:
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Shannon Newhall and Family
Terry Koller
September 7, 2006
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dana Lucente (John's sister)
September 7, 2006
Mrs Knipe and family -
I am so sorry for your loss and if there is anything my family or I can do, please let us know! You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kathleen Hewes
September 7, 2006
To Collete and Family,
You probably do not remember me, I am one of John's first cousins. I live in Florida now. John's Mother and my Father (Francis Rauscher) were brothers and sisters. I just heard about John this morning, from one of other cousins. My deepest sympathy to you and your family at this very sad time in your life. Please know that I will have you in my prayers and thoughts as you go through these next days.
The Entler Family
September 7, 2006
We are praying for your entire family at this time of your tragic loss.
Valerie Lynch
September 7, 2006
John was a dedicated coach for our niece and nephews. We will keep him and his family in our prayers.
The Bertolotti Family
September 7, 2006
Our prayers go out to you and your family
Kristen Reese
September 7, 2006
To the family: My prayer is that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds at this time.
Debbie, Denny, Danielle & Jonathan Henritzy
September 7, 2006
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Nicholas Koch
September 7, 2006
To the entire family,my deepest sincere condolences.
Nicholas Koch
Saylorsburg,PA
Denise (Reese)Hohman
September 7, 2006
Dear Colette, Justin, Brianna, & Joshua
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this most difficult time. Please know that myself, Kristen, Whitney, & Joey are indeed thinking of you now and in the next days to come. Keep all those precious memories in your heart.
Sincerely,
Denise(Reese)Hohman
Donna Jo Ronca ( Komperda -Molnar)
September 7, 2006
I am so very sorry for the loss to your family. I knew John from my grade school days, and then our friendship reunited later in life through our children attending St Ursula's together. My hearts goes out to you, he was truly a wonderful person. (My daughter Kristina Komperda was friends with your son Justin)
Manny, Fi, Tony and Nicholas Mirabito
September 7, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you.
Scott Cope
September 7, 2006
Our prayers are with the Knipe family. Peace be with all of you in this challenging time.
Scott and Karen Cope
donna sabo
September 7, 2006
colette and family, i am so sorry to hear about your loss.you and your family are in my prayers.god bless
donna and nicole sabo
Pam Ferrani
September 7, 2006
Dear Colette, Justin, Brianna and Hammer,
Our heart goes out to all of you at this very sad time. John was a man that we all loved and admired for all he was and all he gave to the sports community. The summers that our son Ryan played for him and with Justin, and getting to know all of you are some of the best baseball times we have ever experienced.
May you find a little comfort in believing that John's spirit will remain and continue to influence all those whose lives he touched.
God Bless,
John and Pam Ferrani
and Ryan, Megan and Kristi
Jay & Chrissie Wieller & family
September 7, 2006
Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Jay & Chrissie Wieller
September 7, 2006
Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Stephanie Dillman
September 7, 2006
Collette- we are so sorry for your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. please call if you need ANYTHING at all. I/we are there for you anytime
Stephi and Brian Dillman and kids
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