Robert John Knapp, age 89, entered into eternal life December 1, 2020. Bob was born on December 22, 1930 in Akron, Ohio. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Eleanor (Kennedy), children; Robert (wife Tami), Lisa Allanson (husband Mark), Richard Knapp (wife Patricia), Dr. Jennie Pattison (husband Michael), Mary Ann Rice, Sr. Mary Teresa of Jesus S.V. And Kathryn Ryan (husband Kevin). He is also survived by 23 grandchildren; Justin, Christopher (Christina), Sean, Steven, Bethany Childers (Dave), Gregory, Joshua, Michael, Lindsey Koch (Matt), Katie Oznowich (Nicholas), Tiffany Kustron (Jared), Daniel Pattison, Melanie Pattison, James Pattison, Lucy Pattison, Peter Larkin, Taylor Rice, Nathan Rice, Jenna Siebert (Zachary), Jason Ryan, (Deanna), Jessica Ryan, Jarrett Ryan, and Jacob Ryan. 21 great grandchildren also survive; Karen, Ryan, Trent, Robbie, Trevor, Emily, Hayden, Gavin, Aiyanna, Gabriella, Noah, Oliver, Mason, Desmond, Liliana, Elijah, Isaac, Levi, Andrew, Jorden, and Isabel.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Pauline Knapp, brother Lawrence and sisters Pat and Janet.

Bob grew up in Stow, Ohio and graduated from Stow High School. He served in the armed forces (Army) during the Korean War attaining the rank of Sergeant.

Bob married his wife Eleanor on Thanksgiving day 1954. Throughout his life he was devoted to his wife and protective of her. The sign on the back of their wedding car said "Goal 12 children" They fell a little short with "only" seven kids. Many happy memories were made by Bob living up to The World's greatest Dad award. Bob loved to take his children roller skating, hiking, and biking with many a game of basketball and badminton being played with his seven children. He made everyone in his family feel special and loved.

Bob left behind many lessons for life: Take joy in the small things in life. Enjoy dessert (with strong black coffee of course), play with your kids, sing lots of songs, and laugh often while always offering a shoulder to cry on when life is too heavy, freely adding your own tears to theirs. Above all else, love God. Bob was a devoted Catholic his whole life and it was the foundation of his life, with a special devotion to the Blessed Mother.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, December 5, 2020 at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church, 242 North State Street, Painesville Ohio. Burial will be at St. Mary's Cemetery.

With respect to those around us, social distancing and the wearing of masks is required.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Sisters of Life, 38 Montebello Rd. Suffern, New York 10901.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later time.

Sisters of Life
38 Montebello Road, Suffern NY 10901