Michael Aaron Knotts

Michael Aaron Knotts 

December 8, 1993-January 18, 2025

Michael Aaron Knotts, 31, of La Porte, Indiana, tragically passed away Saturday, January 18, 2025 in Elkhart, Indiana.

He was born December 8, 1993 in La Porte, Indiana, the son of Barbara (Kurpiel) Knotts, who, along with Robert Nowatzke, raised him to be the man that all will remember.

A life-long resident of the area, Michael was a proud graduate of South Central High School, Union Mills, class of 2012, where he played football as a strong safety for the team. Michael's adventurous spirit led him to recent success when he graduated as a Journeyman in October for Carpenters Local 1485. Michael loved working for Reith-Riley, always striving to reach the next level. His work ethic and cheerful demeanor made him a beloved member of his work community. His infectious smile, which earned him the nickname "Smiley", represented his positivity in all situations. Michael had a heart for uplifting others, always demonstrating charisma and a genuine desire to help those in need. He was a 'city boy' at heart, harboring dreams of visiting New York City. A true social butterfly, he cherished his many friends and together they snowboarded in Colorado, went camping, kayaking, or hiking. As a passionate sports fan, Michael proudly supported the Seattle Seahawks and the Ohio Buckeyes. He was known for his sense of humor, and was always the life of the party, lighting up any room he entered. He was meticulous in his appearance and style, humorously carrying supplies like "dude wipes". A fan of rap, Michael's favorite artist, Future, was often playing. He loved the steady hum of the rain and the winter glint of the snow. Above all, Michael loved his family and friends and was a shining light in the lives of those who had the privilege to know him. He left behind an indelible mark with his infectious personality and vibrant spirit. Michael loved deeply and selflessly, embracing all that life had to offer with open arms. 

He will be greatly missed by those surviving him, including his parents, Barbara and Robert; his sister, Danielle (Kevin Scott) Knotts of North Liberty, IN, her children, Lillyann, Junior, Mia, and grandchild, Myles; his twin brother, Timothy Knotts of Union Mills, IN; his precious girlfriend of two years, Paytyn Abbring of Wheatfield, IN; his bonus parents, Trish (Don) Poort and Rhonda (Joe) Polick, all of Union Mills; five bonus brothers, Stephen, Dalton, Dylan, John and Brian; aunt, Starla (Denis) Lynch and their child, Izzy; aunt, Trish (Ken) Sawyer and their children, Starla and Reid; uncle, Scott Winger, his children, Nicole (Garth) Winger and their children, Kinley and Mckinzie, Chad (Ashten) Winger, Chad's first wife Lexie and their children; Myla, Kegan, Logan, Layla; a large extended family, including the L&D family, and his union brothers and sisters from Carpenter's Local 1485. 

Michael was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mathew (Lois) Kurpiel and grandmother, Linda Nowatzke.

Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., La Porte, IN where the family will receive friends for a visitation Friday, January 31, 2025 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, February 1, 2025 from 11 a.m. until service time at 2 p.m., with Tim Ahlemeyer, officiating. Cremation will take place. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Michael's name to your choice of Riley Children's Hospital, Riley Children's Foundation, 500 N. Meridian Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46204, La Porte County Small Animal Shelter, 2855 IN-2, La Porte, IN 46350, or Salvation Army, 3240 Monroe St, La Porte, IN 46350, to help the homeless.

Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.