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Stephen Knipp Obituary
VIRDEN - Stephen Allen Knipp, 60, of Virden passed away Thursday, July 29, 2010.
He is survived by two sons, Jason Knipp of Virden and Jeff (Julie) Knipp of Alton; three grandchildren, Brittney, Jazzmine and Luke; mother, Edna Knipp of Girard; brother, Rich (Denise) Knipp of Florida; and a niece and nephew.
Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until the time of memorial services at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 2, 2010, at Morrisonville High School Gymnasium, with the Rev. Jim Ferrill officiating. The family requests that casual attire be worn.
Memorials are suggested to the Morrisonville High School Sports Boosters or PMRA.
Perfetti Funeral Home in Morrisonville is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Knipp
Richard T Shea
July 26, 2020
Miss you still. God bless you.
EIleen Parr
April 6, 2020
Steve touched so many lives. I was lucky to call him a friend. We knew each other from NEA conventions and other regional meetings.
He was a good man gone too soon.
I just learned of his death but I have fond memories of our time together.
John McCabe
May 18, 2011
It's been almost a year, but tonight is the Ride of Silence for those who were killed or hurt while riding. Steve was a friend, a good friend and so I will be riding tonight in Peoria with his name and picture on my jersey. Steve and I were just one week apart in age (Steve was older), so we would celebrate our birthdays at the SLA most every summer. This ride is for you Steve.
jack stasio
October 7, 2010
Manitoo, Manitoo, wame masugkenuk Manitoo
Great Spirit,Great Spirit, Almighty Great Spirit
Hear me, I stand before you, Great Spirit.
Ken nootah, nunnepoh anaquabean, manitoo
ut kesuk neen peantom wutche wutamach touoh
Today I pray for one of our departed
woh nagum ketehogkou ut ogunne
May his soul rest in peace
noh tinau yeu ketehogkoun nitoh ut oppu num wae aqunne
show this soul the way tobe peaceful
noh tinau yeu ketehogkoumiche mappu keteonk
show this soul ever lasting life
neane yoyatche neenawan noh pomustau ni ohke wehquetum wutche on kateg neaane yoyatche neenawan noh pomustau ni ohke wehquetun wytche onkateg wusoinau newutche nuttiahein midie manittoo
As always we who walk this earth ask for another judgement from our creater.
wohshinumni squontam ut kesuk wutche yeu ketehogku
Open the doors to Heaven for this Soul
Tabottne- Thank You
Kuttabottomish- I thank you
Nutketetukum- Ihave spoken
Still Waters-Jack Stasio Elder
AHO
Amanda Ellis
August 9, 2010
Thanks for the memories.
Steve Franko
August 8, 2010
Dear Knipp Family,
I just heard of Steve's death and my heart and spirit are deeply saddened. We knew each other from years serving on the NEA AI/AN Caucus. I am the current Midwest Regional Rep. to the caucus. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. I will remember Steve as a dedicated and faithful leader of the caucus and someone very interested and concerned about issues affecting all native groups. Peace to your hearts.
Angela Szantyr
August 7, 2010
To Mrs. Edna Knipp, Jeff & Jay Knipp and their families:
I knew Steve for only a little over a year. However, in that time, it was very clear that love of family was first and foremost on his mind ALWAYS.
He loved his career in education and even though semi-retired, he continued to enthusiastically participate in several educational activities for students.
His commitment to the work of IEA and the NEA was self-evident to all who knew him. He took great pride but was humble and always helpful in his recent role as Chair of the AI/AN Caucus. He was dedicated to his work on other NEA committees & cadres as well.
As our friend, Jack Stasio, longtime member of the AI/AN Caucus told me, Steve now walks with the Elders. He will be greatly missed.
Steve at the NEA AI/AN Caucus table he set up during the Joint Minority and Women's Conference in New Orleans, June 2010.
Zoe Diacou
August 6, 2010
Steve and I in Chicago in August 2009.
Zoe Diacou
August 6, 2010
I love Steve and will always cherish his friendship to me. I've been waiting to write as I thought it would get easier but I'm still in denial.
Your son / father / grandfather was a beautiful man who, as you already know, touched many lives. We initially worked together by collaborating on several NEA projects (particularly focusing on AI/AN crossover issues with English Language Learners as I’m the chair of that NEA caucus) and I was looking forward to continuing that partnership in the upcoming year and beyond. I could go to Steve for advice anytime and knew that if I chose to ignore his opinion, he'd "forgive" me (which he did on several occasions). :)
Eventually, though, our friendship grew beyond that and we began communicating more frequently on "our own time", so to speak. One of his special gifts to me was in encouraging me to appreciate more things about myself. His all-enveloping hugs, text messages, and his simply amazing smiles were an enormous contribution to my life and well-being.
He spoke frequently about all of you, his beloved family, and I felt I knew you a little bit through him. It was obvious to all of us how much he depended on you for his fulfillment in life. He loved and treasured you all above everything else. The void where he should be will continue to be there but I hope that knowledge will continue to give you some measure of comfort in your loss.
Marcia Bradley
August 5, 2010
Knipp Family,
What a special blessing Steve was to those whose lives he touched. Such a kind, gentle, positive, respectful person he was! Ours was a long NEA friendship. He not only always talked about his family, it was with pride and abundant love.
Quoting my daughter when she was 3.."This hurts my heart." Your shock and sadness are being felt by all of us. Know we are there in spirit helping your lives adjust to this tragedy.
Steve, my friend, so sorry you never managed that trip to Alaska so we could go fishing. My next salmon will be for you and released back into the waters. Peace.
Jimmie Myers
August 4, 2010
I will always remember Steve's smile and how enthusiastically he worked for the American Indian/Alaska Native Caucus. He always made everyone feel so welcome to our meetings. This was near and dear to his heart. He was borned to be an educator and touched so many lives and held his torch high. Family know that you are in our thoughts and prayers and Steve will be greatly missed by all of us. Jimmie Myers, Past Chair of the AI/AN Caucus.
Dr. Todd & Eugena Austin
August 3, 2010
Steve was a patient in our office and he always had a smile when coming through our door. He talked a lot about his sons and grandkids. He was a wonderful person and the education community has lost a treasure. We could tell he really loved teaching!!
Our heartfelt condolenses go out to his family. May your faith, family and friends help you through this most difficult time.
Judith Briganti
August 3, 2010
My deepest sympathy to Steve's family. Steve served on the NEA MSARC Committee which I chaired. I remember his enthusiasm, positive attitude, sense of humor and willingness to do what ever task was needed. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I will always remember Steve.
Sonny Bechler
August 3, 2010
Please accept my sincere sympathy. I served for many years on the IEA board and attended many NEA conventions with Steve. Steve had a wonderful sense of humor and an awesome smile. May God bless your family.
August 3, 2010
My deepest sympathy go out to you and your family. I respected and admired Stephen. It was a pleasure to attend and be a member of the NI/AN Caucus with him. He will not be forgotten.
"Tracy Hartman-Bradley ( LaVista, NE)"
Rachel & Jeff Bethard
August 3, 2010
Mr. Knipp was a great teacher and coach. He will be missed by many. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
JoAnn Harvey
August 2, 2010
Stephen's untimely death, reminds us what a precious gift life is. Steve was the leader of our NEA American Indian/Alaska Native caucus.
He will be missed by all our membership, for his respectful, and caring manner, and his ability to treat others in a dignified, joyful way.
I will remember him; always smiling, being positive under all circumstances,
and enjoying each moment of every day.
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the family.
JoAnn Harvey,Treasurer, AI/AN Caucus
Mary Clair
August 2, 2010
Our deepest and sincere sympathy to the Knipp family. Words seldom can express the thoughts that come from the heart, but may you find comfort in knowing that others sympathize and care. May the memories you shared help to ease your sorrow and time bring you peace. Steve's leadership,inspiration and caring will be missed with those he touched in the NEA family. May the words of those he knew in the NEA family give you comfort in knowing how much he loved all of you.
Mary Clair, NEA Hispanic Caucus Chair
Monica
August 2, 2010
I am so sorry to learn of Mr. Knipp's untimely passing as well. I know that he devoted a lot of time, energy, and heart to the Morrisonville schools and to the IEA/NEA. I was a student in his P.E. classes, & he also coached our volleyball team. May everyone's prayers lift you up during this time.
Richard Lum
August 2, 2010
My deepest sympathy to the Knipp family in this time of sorrow. For the past three years I have worked and laughed with Steve as we served on the NEA Ethnic Minority Affairs Committee. I came to know him as a true and genuine friend. I will miss his camaraderie, counsel, and laughs! He now returns home to the Lord. God Bless You, family!
Richard Lum
Vice Chair
NEA Asian / Pacific Islander Caucus
Richard Shea
August 2, 2010
It is so sad to learn of Stephen's untimely passing. I knew him through his leadership in the NEA American-Indian/Alaska Native Caucus. He demonstrated a genuine interest in preserving and perpetuating the native culture, especially through education.
His friendship, smile, and sincerity will be sorely missed. My condolences to the Knipp family. Richard Shea, Northeast Director, NEA AI/AN Caucus.
Stephanie Spresser
August 2, 2010
Jason,
So sorry about your loss, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
PHIL ODOM
August 2, 2010
Jason and Jeff,
My deepest sympathy and heart felt prayers go out to you two with such a sudden and tragic death of your Father and my classmate and dear friend.
I say farewell to a Wesclin Icon and a hell of a New Baden/New Memphis ite,
for I used to ride my bike to New Memphis to play with him as a kid, I bet most don't remember he used to live in New Memphis.
Steve, May the force (of GOD) be with you and your family, now and for evermore, for we love you and will miss you dearly.
Steve starting an NEA AI/AN Caucus mtg., New Orleans
Clyde Hodge
August 2, 2010
Balanced, thoughtful, caring, kind, and considerate were just a few words that described Steve's character. In him we lost a true Warrior for Indian Education, and education in general. I'll miss his camaraderie as a true ally and friend. May his walk home across the Milky Way be smooth and lighthearted.
Clyde Hodge, NEA AI/AN Caucus Pacific Regional Director
Mary Bendorf
August 2, 2010
My thoughts are prayers are with the family during this tragic time. I was a classmate of Steve's and always just a great guy. His loss leaves us all sad but remains in our hearts. Mary True Bendorf
Dr. Denise Minnis
August 2, 2010
My heartfelt condolences to the family of Steve Knipp. I was an MHS student of his. He was the best English and PE teacher MHS had, in my opinion. I ended up becoming an English teacher myself! Always smiling, always willing to help students. He helped with our Student Council Car Wash fundraiser once and even let us wash his 5 speed! God has called him home now. He will live on in our memories though. Peace and Blessings upon his family. Respectfully, Dr. Denise Minnis (Morrisonville, IL and Irbid,Jordan)
August 2, 2010
Sincere sympathy to the Knipp family. Steve was our NEA American Indian/Alaska Native Caucus Chair. Steve was a
great inspiration to us all and touched so many people's lives. The caucus will miss his leadership and big smile, and I will surely miss his friendship. I feel that I know the family especially the grandchildren. He loved you all very much.
Debbie Hogue-Downing,NEA AI/AN Caucus
Vice-Chair
Rita Hummingbird
August 2, 2010
Although we saw each other so few times in our lives, I will always have a fondness in my heart for my cousin Steve. My prayer is for peace to bless his family and everyone else who loved him.
August 2, 2010
Steve Knipp family-I had the privilege of serving with Steve on Regional Council in Springfield, representing the Rochester local. He was an excellent leader and an asset in the IEA/NEA organizations. May God grant you His peace, and give your family strength and comfort at this time and always.
~Dave Lipe, Springfield, Illinois
Will Gunn
August 2, 2010
My wife use to kid me that I went on more vacations with Steve Knipp than I did with her. I first met Steve when I began my career substituting at MHS. He taught me a lot as a beginning teacher. Later as a fellow NEA delegate, Steve showed me the ropes and became a great friend. He was intellegent, kind, caring, and always a pleasure to be around. I have many great memories of Steve at NEA conventions- he loved bread pudding and great pizza and always knew where to find great food no matter what city we were in. God Bless you Steve. you will be remembered and missed.
steven weaver
August 2, 2010
Steve and I were team mates in baseball and basketball both in high school and various summer leagues. He was part of my youth and his loss brings both sadness and wonderful memories of playing ball next to a hog ditch on east end of town. My condolences to his family. This is sad.--steven weaver
August 2, 2010
I would like the Knipp Family to know that Stephen touched many lives in his work with NEA. His NEA Family in CA is deeply moved by this tragedy. Our prayers to you. Marty Meeden, CTA Board Member, past Chair NEA AI/AN Caucus
Dwain Tucker
August 2, 2010
I had Steve Knipp as a teacher for several years in high school in Morrisonville in the 1980's. I always remember Mr. Knipp with a big smile on his face. I think he was even our class's advisor Junior Year, and helped us put together our Prom, which of course he worked tirelessly on. I remember him dancing on the dance floor with his wife at it also. We had hoped to invite him along with a few of the other teachers from our time to our next high school reunion. He is remembered very fondly.
Morrisonville High School Class of 1982
Alida Graham
August 1, 2010
My deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Steve Knipp. I knew Steve through IEA and he was a strong advocate and knew no strangers. I'm so sorry to hear of his passing.
Monica Harris
August 1, 2010
Mr Knipp will be sadly missed by many. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Bryan Forbes
August 1, 2010
Over the years that I knew Steve, our relationship grew from student-teacher, to friends, to colleagues. He was a multi-talented individual, teaching a myriad of subjects and coaching several different sports over his career. I will miss our discussions about education and athletics.
The Knipp family will be in my family's prayers as they cope with the loss of their dad/grandfather.
Tracy Grundy
August 1, 2010
Steve Knipp- was someone I knew very well he spoke at my daughter Megan's funeral he was her volleyball coach and drivers ed teacher he also taught her PE in school I did his hair for years and Megan watched his cat Trej when he was on vacation-I can tell you he loved his family very much I will miss his Christmas cards he sent me every year-A life cut short never makes any sense but God does have a plan for all of us -I know nothing I will say will make anyone feel any better but I hope his family knows he will be thought of now and often. My prayers are with you all.
Tracy Grundy
Fredricka Hatfill
August 1, 2010
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Nancy (Cravens) Sergent
August 1, 2010
Jeff and Jason, I don't know if you remember me I use to babysit you. I wanted to tell you how very sorry I was to hear about your dad he was a wonderful teacher and I'm sure a great dad.He will always be remembered as a great Morrisonville teacher.
Steven Cryder
August 1, 2010
Jason and Jeff -
My deepest sympathy on the loss of your dad. He was a great individual and friend.
Steve Cryder, Wesclin Class of '68
Ruth Ratermann
August 1, 2010
Dear Jeff and Jason,
On behalf of the class of 1968 I would like to extend our condolences. We are loosing a classmate, friend, and all around great guy. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. THE CLASS OF 1968.
Loretta Adcock Poggenpohl
August 1, 2010
I remember Mr. Knipp from MHS as my English teacher and advisor for the class of 1979. He was one of the good guys. He passion as a teacher and a coach was evident every day. My husband Bruce had enjoyed visiting with Steve last week at Mama Dee's at lunch. He was always ready to visit and reaquaint himself with our lives. My heart aches for your family and the days ahead. May you feel God's presence during this time of loss and always.
E Hendricks
August 1, 2010
the knipp family is in my thoughts and prayers
Katrina Lebeter
August 1, 2010
Mr. Knipp was a great man,teacher, and coach. He will be greatly missed by many.
Pat Stapleton
August 1, 2010
Steve--you were one of the first IEA members to welcome me to Region 7 way back when. You never knew a stranger and never deserved the fate that has befallen you. God grant you rest in His peace. You will missed by everyone who came in contact with you. Thanks for the IEA memories.
mr and mrs mike lebeter
August 1, 2010
mr knipp will be sadly missed by all who knew him. your in are thaughts and prayers
Sharon Rametta
August 1, 2010
May God bless the family at their time of sorrow. Steve loved and was proud of his family. He will be missed by all who loved him.
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