Gene F. Knapp

Gene F. Knapp, 80, of Keokuk, passed away on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in Fort Madison, Iowa. Gene was born on March 14, 1945, in Waterloo, Iowa, the son of Kenneth and Oda (Michelsen) Knapp. In 1963, he graduated from Hudson High School in Hudson, Iowa. He furthered his education by obtaining his Bachelors in Psychology and Sociology and went on to receive a Masters in Psychology at the University of Northern Iowa. On July 19, 1980, he was united in marriage to Deborah "Debbie" Knapp in Bettendorf, Iowa. She survives. He was employed as a counselor/ home school liaison in the Keokuk Community School District, retiring in 2006. Gene was a man of many hobbies and interests, including showing tractors at Old Threshers, fishing, and riding around town on his collector vehicles and mopeds. A talented musician, Gene played in a band during the 1970's (The Flight Brother's Band). He collected many guitars, amplifiers and trumpets throughout his life. He was also a member of McNamara's Band and played in the high school pep band. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, coaching his children's sports and attending all his grandchildren's events. While employed at Keokuk Senior High, Gene was heavily involved as the leader of student council and served as a class sponsor. He created the T.V. News Department and assisted with many more activities. He left a legacy of instilling strong morals and a sense of integrity in his family and students alike. His selflessness, compassion, sense of humor, and love for his family and community will always be remembered. Gene is survived by his wife Debbie Knapp of Keokuk; two daughters: Ashley (Travis) Knapp-Brandenberger and Lexie (Cole) Shipley, both of Keokuk; and three grandchildren: Everly and Sutton Knapp-Brandenberger and Maeve Shipley. In addition, he is survived by his cousin Terry Knapp and his family, his cousin Beth Young and her family, step sisters (Loraine and Linda), step brother (Howie), and several nieces and nephews. Gene is preceded in death by his parents, brother Rollin Knapp, his step mother Gloria Freilinger, his step brother George Hansen, as well as his lifelong friend Rick Trachsel. Visitation will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025, from 3 to 7 pm, with family meeting friends from 5 to 7 pm at Printy Funeral Home, 917 Blondeau Street, Keokuk, Iowa. Burial will be held at 12 pm (Noon) on Saturday, August 2, at Mt. Vernon Cemetery in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Memorials may be directed to the family to be used for food and supplies for students in need at Canton R-V School District in Canton, Missouri. To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.