Craig E. Knapp
Craig E. Knapp, 70, of Langlade, passed away on February 8, 2024. He was born on October 29, 1953 in Chicago, IL, to the late Charles E. and Audrey J. Knapp. Craig is survived by sisters, Christine Newman of IL and Carrie Breitung of CA, as well as 3 nephews. He graduated from Knox College in Illinois, with a degree in Political Science in 1975. Craig then pursued a career specializing in lighting as a stagehand in Chicago. He was passionate about whitewater and sea kayaking, campfires, playing chess, pool, engaging in philosophic and scientific debate and socializing. He was a dedicated professional sports fan and stayed true to the Chicago Bears and the Cubs, but was also known to raise a toast or buy a round for Packer victories. Craig also took great pride in his yard featuring an eclectic array of Sasquatches, animal sculptures, mythological statues, flowers and solar lights. A true helper, Craig was dedicated to carrying out any mission he was assigned. When the 2007, Bear Paw tornado hit, he was in the area to kayak. He wholeheartedly joined the mission to help clean up and rebuild the resort. Craig helped other kayak friends engineer the iconic kayak tree still sta...[more]View Full Online Obituary and Tributes
ng on the site today. He arrived with the tornado and never left. He was known to run endless shuttles, perform river rescues, safety boat, monitor an event campfire or string the lights. He drove floats in parades, did trash duty on the river and along the road and lovingly pet-sat for friends. He could be counted on to be generous with his time and treasure for friends in need. Craig had a brilliant and complex mind and a lovable sense of humor. He could spontaneously recite entire classical poems or recall song lyrics for every mood or occasion. Craig will be honored and remembered on Saturday, June 8 at the Kayak Tree at Bear Paw Outdoor Adventure Resort at 2 pm. Friends will then paddle or float section 2 of the Wolf River followed by a BBQ and reminiscing at Wolf River Roots in Langlade.
