John Joseph Knape

John J. Knape, age 84 of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully at home May 15, 2024, surrounded by his family. John is survived by his wife, Joanne; daughters, Cheryl (Greg) Crabb, Jennifer (Victor) Chiodini; grandchildren, Kayleigh, Clara, and Hadley Crabb, Bella and Emerson Chiodini; along with his beloved sister, Joan Caldwell. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Florence Knape; brothers, Don, Dick, Jerry, and Roger. John went to heaven with a smile in his heart. He was born in Grand Rapids and graduated from Catholic Central High School. He went on to graduate college from Marquette University in Milwaukee before working for twenty years in Racine, Wisconsin. He concluded his career at Knape & Vogt Manufacturing where he oversaw the hundredth anniversary celebration of the company. Outside the office, John "enjoyed" boating, golfing, and tennis. Throughout his life, John served various community organizations including the Catholic Church.
The family will greet friends and relatives from 5-8pm on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at O'Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11am on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at St. Robert of Newminster Catholic Church, 6477 Ada Drive SE, Ada, Michigan 49301, with visitation one hour prior. Rev. Tony Russo presiding. Interment Cascade Cemetery. Memorial Contributions can be made to St. Robert Catholic Church or Fr. Len Sudlik Scholarship Fund.