Don Lee Knop, 81, passed away surrounded by his wife and children at his home in Ellinwood on September 17th. Born on April 25, 1941, in Great Bend, KS he was the son of Alvin C. and Mary Gretchen (Isern) Knop. On September 15, 1962, he married the love of his life at St. Joseph Church in Ellinwood. They just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary right before his passing. Don was owner and operator of Knop Sand Company, Knop Auto Parts and Repair, and Knop Farms. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus #1187 and St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ellinwood.
Don enjoyed visiting with people and made many lifetime friends throughout the years.
He was proceeded in death by his parents; a brother, Kent Knop; and a brother-in-law, Eric Kowitz. Survivors include wife Janice Knop of Ellinwood; daughter Debbie (James) McCormick of Ellinwood, sons, Danny Knop and Damian (Robyn) Knop of Ellinwood. Other survivors include a sister, Susan Kowitz of Hutchinson, a sister-in-law, Rose Knop of Ellinwood, 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Mass of Christian burial will take place at 10:30 AM, Thursday, September 22nd at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ellinwood with Father Terrance Klein officiating. Interment will follow at Lakin-Comanche Cemetery in Ellinwood. Visitation will take place Wednesday from noon to 6:00 PM at Minnis Chapel in Ellinwood with the Parish Rosary/Vigil following at 6:00 PM. Memorials are suggested to St Joseph School or Ellinwood Fire Department in care of Minnis Chapel, PO Box 246, Ellinwood, KS 67526.