Ernest Knapp

Ernest J. "Ernie" Knapp, age 69, of Three Rivers, passed away early Friday, September 28, 2012 at his home surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Three Rivers, MI. on May 18, 1943 the son of Ernest Knapp Sr. and Mildred (Meier) Knapp. Ernest has been a life time resident of Three Rivers and graduated from TRHS, Western Michigan University and Michigan State University. He served his country in the U.S. Army from December 9, 1964 until he was honorably discharged on December 8, 1966. Ernie was employed as an Audio/Visual Technician at Southwestern Community College, in Dowagiac, MI. before taking ill. On June 28th 1986 Ernie married the love of his life, Betty Van Oosterhout and they made their home near Corey Lake where Ernie took great pride in planting trees, working with nature and his dog, "Mr. McDoogle". Mr. Knapp was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Edwin Knapp. He leaves to cherish his loving memory, wife, Betty, three sisters, Evonne Amundson, of Lake Forrest, IL., Marlene (John) O'Connor, of Largo, Florida, and Elise Knapp, of Holland, MI., two brothers-in-law, Tom (Linda) and Bob (Mary) Van Oosterhout; several nieces and nephews and many many friends. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 1st, 2012 at the Hohner Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 2nd, 2012 at the Hohner Funeral Home, with Bob Van Oosterhout and Pat O'Connor officiating. Interment will be held in Riverside Cemetery with lunch following at Immaculate Conception Church Memorials may be donated to the "Friends of Riverside" to plant trees or the Animal Rescue Fund (A.R.F.). Envelopes available at the funeral home.