Wilbert J. Knope, Jr. (J.R. to those who knew him) passed away due to Covid-19 and other health issues on Tuesday, November 3, 2020 at ThedaCare Medical Center-Shawano.
He was born March 23, 1938 in Shawano, a son of the late Wilbert and Lillian (Grosskopf) Knope. J.R. attended St. James Lutheran School, and graduated from Shawano High School with the class of 1956. He then attended Badger Business School in Green Bay. On February 25, 1961, J.R. was united in marriage to the former Elaine Buettner at St. James Lutheran Church where he was a lifelong member. J.R. worked for NEW Office Supply in Green Bay where he was a salesman and later, a purchasing agent.
J.R. played basketball, golf, bowling, and softball. He was a fan of the Milwaukee Brewers, the Green Bay Packers, and the Milwaukee Bucks. He enjoyed playing cards, especially Smear, Sheepshead, and cribbage. In his later years, J.R. enjoyed cutting wood.
Survivors include his loving wife of almost 60 years, Elaine; his daughters, Kelly (Rick) Karcz and Lori (Rik) Acken; his granddaughters, Chelsey Lundquist and Andria Karcz; his step-grandchildren, Kendrick (Abby) Acken, Katie (Josh) Plyter, and Keenan Acken; two step-great-grandchildren, Kinley Plyter and Noble Acken; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his infant sister, Patricia; parents-in-law, Delmar and Erna Buettner; and his sister-in-law, Carol Rowan.
A memorial service for Wilbert J. Knope, Jr. will be held on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at 11:30 AM at Mickelson Funeral Service in Shawano. Pastor Mark Drengler will officiate. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM and continue until the time of service. Private burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery at a later date.
Mickelson Funeral & Cremation Service of Shawano is assisting the family with arrangements.
“Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the family is grateful for the contributions they have already received in J.R.’s memory.”
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