Charles "Chuck" Knapp Jr.

Charles (Chuck) C. Knapp Jr.
September 29, 1958 – September 20, 2025
Charles (Chuck) C. Knapp Jr., 66, passed away on September 20, 2025, at the Richmond Hospice Compassionate Care Center after a courageous yearlong battle with cancer.
Chuck was born on September 29, 1958, in Hamilton, Ohio, to the late Charles and Helen (Gall) Knapp. He was also preceded in death by his grandparents-Virginia and Jesse Knapp, and Gazella Gall, and Louis Gall Sr.-as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He is survived by his sisters, Deborah Marlow and Rebecca (Ernest) Hauser; his nephew, Keegan Burton; aunt, Irene (Thurmond) McIntosh; uncle, Louis (Betty June) Gall Jr.; and numerous cherished cousins.
A 1976 graduate of Ross Senior High School, Chuck's adventurous spirit took him across the country to California, before returning home on a motorcycle in 1978 to settle in the state he grew to love-Kentucky. He earned a bachelor's degree in communication and a master's degree in special education from Eastern Kentucky University.
Chuck was an entrepreneur at heart, owning two establishments over the years: First on First and The End Zone. For the last 14 years of his career, he served as a Special Education teacher in the Kentucky school system. Chuck was deeply devoted to his students, lovingly referring to them as "his kids," and impacting lives across all ages and abilities.
Chuck attended Union City Church, where he previously taught Sunday school, helped with Vacation Bible School, delivered Thanksgiving meals, and took a children's choir caroling at a local nursing home each Christmas season.
An avid outdoorsman, Chuck found joy in fishing, camping, and kayaking-including a memorable journey through the Florida Everglades. He also volunteered with equine therapy programs, wrestled in college, boxed professionally, and even learned to fly a plane. A lifelong animal lover, he cared for many creatures over the years-goats, rabbits, chickens, turtles-but his greatest love was reserved for big dogs, of which he had many special companions.
Chuck was a vibrant, outgoing soul who made lasting friendships everywhere he went. He became a beloved fixture in the Richmond community, and in his final months, he was surrounded by a remarkable circle of friends who provided unwavering support.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Robert and Linda Murphy; Teresa and Bill Ramsey; and Richard and Teresa Lowe all of whom gave so much of themselves and their time to helping Chuck in so many ways. A special act of kindness was given by Richard and Teresa Lowe that made an immeasurable difference in Chuck's final days giving him much peace of mind. Richard, your sacrifices, and friendship-especially amid your own health challenges-meant the world to Chuck and to our family. Chuck was grateful and blessed to have you in his life, brother.
Chuck will be remembered for his compassion, humor, love of life, and the indelible impact he left on those fortunate enough to know him.
Care Cremation and Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with final care.