Raymond L. Knapp

Raymond L. Knapp, 83, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2021, in Suffield, Ohio, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Randolph, Ohio, Ray grew up as one of 12 children on their family farm. He attended from St. Bernard Preparatory School in Cullman, Alabama, and went on to receive a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the Indiana Institute of Technology in 1960. He was a lifetime Member of the National Society of Professional Engineers and an honorary life member of the Knights of Columbus. He owned and operated Knapp Construction Company for more than 35 years. After college, he met Mary Jane (Janie) Miller. Married for over 60 years, they were blessed with 4 children and 6 grandchildren and more than 70 nieces and nephews He is survived by his beloved wife, Janie, and their children Mark, Doreen Knapp Riley, Kelly (Doug) Blay, Raymond (Gretchen) Knapp II, and grandchildren; Olivia, Caroline, Catie, Allison, Harrison, and Christopher; along with his siblings Betty (Jim) Sorboro, Rosemary (Mike) Kintz. He was preceded in death by his parents Oscar and Ollie (Arehart) Knapp; and siblings William, Roy, John, Paul, Alice, Edna, Dorothy, Jane, and Dick. Ray was a 60-year member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Randolph. Known as a "gentleman farmer," Ray was a man of integrity, strength, and a great storyteller with a twinkle in his eye to support his playful spirit. He was an avid fan of his family's activities and instilled in them the principles and values by which he modeled his personal life while showing them the nuances of farming and a strong work ethic. He cherished his grandchildren's endeavors in 4-H livestock shows, athletics, and building rockets. Ray knew no sick day and took care of his beloved draft horses, Bob and Barney, and his cattle. He loved taking his family on horse-drawn wagon and sleigh rides. He truly enjoyed driving his father's restored 1947 Farmall tractor. The Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00a.m. on Tuesday, March 2, 2021 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Randolph, Ohio with Father Tom Acker presiding. Family and friends who wish to bid a final farewell to Ray may visit the church as early as 9:30 on Tuesday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Joseph Church or School. Due to COVID-19, masks and social distancing guidelines will be followed. Service will be live streamed on the Hopkins Lawver Facebook page for those who may be unable to attend. & together they built a life they loved.....