William Knapp

WILLIAM "BILL" KNAPP, age 62, of Olathe, KS, passed away February 2, 2015 while in St. Maarten.

Bill was born in Middleport, NY on December 15th 1952, to Fred and Marie Knapp. He was a 1971 graduate of the Royalton-Hartland High School, and then attended Northeastern University in Boston, MA where he earned a degree in Pharmacy. Bill was also a member of the United States Air Force from 1972-1976 honorably serving his country overseas during the Vietnam War.


On July 6th, 1974, Bill married Denise (Belliveau) Knapp. To this union three children were born; Sarah, Andy and Kate. Bill was a devoted husband and father.


Bill was an avid traveler and was a scuba diving enthusiast.


He is survived by his wife of 40 years Denise, and three children; Sarah (Jim) Owens of Olathe, Andy (Becky) Knapp of Michigan, and Kate (Jake) Silsby of Seattle. He is also survived by his sisters Lois (Rick) Kurek and Ruth (Adam) Ohol and several nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Marie Knapp.

The legacy that Bill has created is the beautiful and undying love that he had for his wife and children. He always wanted to live life to the fullest and has created so many memories that we cherish. His passion for diving was one that he was able to participate in on a regular basis and had completed over 500 dives. He never worried about the little things in life and treated everyone with kindness. The love for family and friends and what he could do to help them will be what he is forever remember for.

In honor of his memory, donations to the Nature Foundation St. Maarten, would please him knowing that the preservation and enhancement of the natural environment of St. Maarten will live on.

Following the services, there will be a Celebration of Life Reception for friends and family, beginning at 7:30pm at the Avignon Clubhouse, 14245 W. 117th Ct., Olathe, KS 66062.