Richard P. Knape

Richard (Dick) P. Knape of Defiance, OH, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026, at CHP Inpatient Hospice in Defiance, surrounded by family. He was born April 1, 1945, to Paul R. and Regina M. (Bischoff) Knape. He was Baptized as an infant in the Christian Faith and Confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Adams Ridge Road, Defiance.

Richard was the oldest of six children. He is survived by his siblings: Robert (Sandy) Knape, of Peralta, NM; Barbara Helmke of Westland, MI; Margaret (James) Huston of West Unity, OH; Mary Ann (Luther) Gautsche of Archbold, OH and Roger (Anny) Knape of Archbold, OH. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, William Helmke. He is also survived by his children: Phillip Knape, Kirk Knape, Kelly (Doug) Burnett, Tamara Westfall and Cassandra (Elias) Jimenez all of Defiance, OH; 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Richard was fiercely independent by nature and took great pride in his work. He enjoyed his years as a truck driver, working for several local companies. Richard went on to own and operate an excavating business for many years and later established a wrecker and salvage business, providing local services as well as over the road semi-truck accident recovery. While his health allowed, he enjoyed going to local restaurants and sharing coffee and conversation with friends. He loved spending time outdoors caring for his horses.

A family memorial will be at a later date.