HORNELL – Richard S. “Dick” Knapp, 82 breathed his last early Sunday morning (Jan. 28, 2018) at his home on Honey Run Road in Hornell, surrounded by the love of his family and friends, both near and far.
Born on Dec. 13, 1935 to parents Andrew and Irene (Conrad) Knapp, Dick was a student of life and the youngest of nine siblings.
Dick was many other things in his lifetime. Just a few of them: a richly talented artist, a professional rodeo cowboy, a farrier, a heavy equipment operator, an avid hunter, fisherman, and golfer. He knew growing up that he was a cowboy, for he had a deep love of horses. He met his wife as he helped her saddle up for a trail ride. Dick and Sue, along with all four of their children, hit the rodeo circuit every summer. Friends always knew when he’d arrived on the rodeo grounds by his inevitable burst of laughter that was heard clear across the arena. Lifetime friendships were formed during those summer days.
The rodeo years gradually turned into golf years, where he made new friends. He met even more on countless hunting and fishing trips through the years, often inviting them into his home to spend time with his family. Thankfully, those who could, were able to visit him in his last days at home. Many friends and family called to touch base with him one last time, bringing a smile to his face, and sometimes even a twinkle to his eyes.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Suzanne Goff Knapp; four children, Cynthia Berry (Jim Gardon) of Ocala, FL, Clint Knapp of Hornell, Tracy (Tom) Cassidy of Birdsall, and Theron Knapp (Yuli Lestari) of Myanmar; two sisters, Maxine Horr of Williamson, NY and Gertrude Passalogue of Greece, NY; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren with another due in May; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many, many blessed friends.
In addition to his parents, Dick was predeceased by four brothers, Martin Cooper, Vinnie Cooper, Bill Cooper, and Harold Knapp; and two sisters, Carlita Sherman and Juanita Ringer.
A memorial service in celebration of Dick’s life will be held at the Sovereign Grace Baptist Church, 2714 County Route 70A (Big Creek Road) at 11 a.m. Saturday (Feb. 3, 2018) with Pastor Nathan Ruble officiating.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in his memory to Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund, 101 Pro Rodeo Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80919.
The Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc., 285 Main St. in Hornell is honored to serve the family of Richard Stewart “Dick” Knapp.
Online condolences or remembrances of Dick are welcomed at www.bishopandjohnsonfuneraalhome.com.
