John Knapp

John Victor Knapp, 84, of Alden, Michigan, passed away on September 23, 2025. Born in Jackson, Michigan, to Jack and Donna (Strouss) Knapp, John graduated from Ferris State University and built a 50-year career as a pharmacist at Hoffman-Knapp Drugs.

He is survived by his wife, Ann Louise (Hoffman) Knapp, with whom he had a 61-year love affair; daughters Karen Knapp and her husband Dick Siegel, and Jennifer Knapp; son John "Nipper" Knapp and his wife, Marija Herrala. Grandchildren Zak Eicher and wife Sarah, Arden Knapp and fiancée Ryan Thwaites, Jack Knapp, and Charlie Knapp; his brother, David Knapp. He was preceded in death by his brother Steve.

Known to all as "Big Guy", John Knapp was a man with a heart to match. A fiercely loyal family man and active participant in every step of his kids' lives, the Big Guy was present for every moment that mattered - from school plays to sporting events, from teaching bike riding to patient home repairs, all without the usual fatherly expletives. More often than not, it was sprinkled with humor in the form of perfectly timed pun. The Big Guy led with joy. He was humble enough to let his kid's journey reshape his own perspective. His political ideology transformed as he witnessed the challenges they faced. He became a fierce advocate for making the world better for them. Secure in his masculinity, he celebrated strong women and welcomed those who didn't look, think, or live their lives exactly as he did.

Perhaps his greatest gift as a parent, was his curiosity without judgment - he learned from his children, expanding his worldview based on their interests and passions, never questioning why but always asking how he could understand better. When his kids pursued their diverse paths, he followed along with boundless enthusiasm and unwavering support.

John found joy perfecting his golf swing, playing tennis, cheering on his beloved University of Michigan athletics, and doing yardwork at the home he and Ann loved near Torch Lake. He was passionate about Native American mythology, riding motorcycles with his fellow B.O.T.H. members, and loved a beer with family and friends.

John led with empathy and compassion in a world that often confuses toughness with tough talk. A gifted listener who read between the lines as both pharmacist and father, he had the Socratic gift of offering advice that made you feel you'd reached the conclusion yourself. John carried the weight for everyone in his heart, and showed that curiosity and the courage to change one's mind could create a much bigger life than anyone he himself might have once imagined. Now it’s time for him to rest.

A celebration of life will be held October 11, 2025, in Bellaire, Michigan. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s's Children's Hospital.

Arrangements are in the care of the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

Sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com