Thomas R. Knabe

Thomas R. Knabe, 83, of Belvidere, passed away on December 10, 2025.

Tom was born on January 17, 1942, in Medford, WI, the son of Alvin and Evelyn (Werhand) Knabe. He graduated from Medford High School in 1960 and studied with DeVry University, Chicago. Tom then went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Airforce in 1962, serving through 1966. He married Christine C. Waskiewicz in Rockford, IL at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church on February 4, 1967.

Tom spent his career working at several places in Wisconsin and Rockford including Mink Ranch, IGA, Sundstrand Hydraulic/Suntec, Marplex, Orzach Heating & Cooling and Contry Homes. He was a proud member of the NRA, American Legion Post #0077, Holy Family Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. Tom enjoyed spending his free time gardening, hunting, fishing and cheering on the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers.

Tom is survived by his wife, Christine Knabe; children, Thomas (Laura) Knabe of Poplar Grove, Susan Knabe of Belvidere, John Knabe of Loves Park, Andrew Knabe of Poplar Grove; grandchildren, Alexandra (Derek) Anderson, Nicholas Knabe (fiancée Morgan), Autumn (Gary) Helfvogt, Elliette, John Griffin, Austin, and Emmie Knabe; great-grandchildren, Chesney, Memphis and Lace Anderson and Ada Helfvogt; brother, Terry Knabe of Denver, CO; sister-in-law, Dorothy Knabe of Rockford; many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Timothy and James Knabe and sister-in-law, Darlene Knabe.

Celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Rd. Rockford, IL 61107.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Tom’s name to the Poor Clare Colettine Nuns of Rockford.

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