Steven Edward Knapp

Steven Edward Knapp, 66, of Pine Island, died unexpectedly on Monday, February 22, 2021, at his home. He was born on February 8, 1955 in Prescott, WI to Kenneth and Barbara (Gillis) Knapp. He graduated from the Wanamingo High School in 1973. He played college football at the University of Minnesota, Waseca. He met his future wife through his sister, Mary, and it was love at first sight. On July 12, 1980 he was united in marriage to Rita Schmit in Rose Creek, MN. They lived in Hader and Wanamingo before building their home in Pine Island in 1998. They raised three children, Tim, Melissa, and Andrew. Steven farmed for many years, worked at the Wanamingo Meat Locker, DS Manufacturing in Pine Island, Crenlo in Rochester, and did carpentry work in his free time. He and Rita crafted various wood projects in which they would sell at craft shows. Steven cut and constructed the projects, while Rita would paint and put on the final touches. He was proud of his lawn and spent many hours on his John Deere perfecting it. He enjoyed camping trips with his family, which included Florida and Yellowstone. He especially enjoyed their yearly trips to Jellystone in Warrens, WI with his children and grandchildren. He and Rita traveled together to England, Ireland, Scotland, Italy, Canada, Alaska, Hawaii and many other states as well. Steven loved spending time with and spoiling his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Rita; three children, Tim (Nissa) Knapp of Fountain, MN, Melissa Loof of Story City, IA, and Andrew (Lindzy) Knapp of Rochester, MN; grandchildren, Carter, Cooper, Blake, Piper, Jack, Lillian, and a granddaughter due in May; and two brothers, and five sisters.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth Knapp and Barbara Hougo, and his foster parents, Oswald and Ethel Haugen.

A private family funeral service will be at 1 p.m. on Friday, February 26, 2021 at Mahn Family Funeral Home, Larson Chapel in Zumbrota with Reverend Christopher Culuris officiating. A public walk-through visitation will be from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Masks and social distancing are required. Burial will be at Trinity Lutheran Church Cemetery. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.