Michael (Mike) Gene Knope, 72, of Menifee, CA and formerly Colchester, VT, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2022, after a courageous battle with cancer. Michael was known to most as a gentle, fun-loving, and caring man. We couldn’t have asked for a better father, brother, husband, or friend.
Michael was born in Wisconsin, grew up in Illinois, and moved to Vermont with his first wife after serving in the US Navy aboard the USS Benjamin Stoddart. He joined IBM in the late 70s and officially retired in 2013. In 2020 he moved to California.
On August 5, 1989, Michael married the love of his life, Gail. They spent many years as a blended family creating amazing memories. Being a father and stepfather to 5 children, he enjoyed being the captain of the family boat, passing his old Camaro to his daughters to drive, cruising in his Corvette or Jeep, and creating beautiful woodwork in his workshop. He dedicated his time to supporting his family – whether he was working, building a shed, or holding a camcorder to record his family’s most precious moments. Gail and Mike spent their time bowling on Thursdays, camping in their RV, or touring New England in their Corvette.
Michael was known to be selfless and honoring of those he loved with the utmost devotion. He cared for his mother-in-law, without hesitation, after she suffered a stroke, relocating to her home to ensure she was the most comfortable. Later, he would care for his Gail as she battled Alzheimer’s for many years in their home.
Michael was generous and friendly to all he met. Nicknamed “The Ambassador”, he fostered a close-knit community of Jeep-loving folks across North America who had a common love of humor. He was able to have many fun adventures with them online and offline. His children wish to thank his Jeep family for the love and joy they gave to their dad/stepdad over the last 2 years. He spoke highly of the group and of them often.
Michael was predeceased by his wife, Gail Ann Knope, in 2020; his mother, Elvera Knope, father, Harold Knope, and his brother Robert Knope.
Michael leaves behind his 5 children, Kim (Dave) Gray, Jeremy (Amity) Knope, Keely (Tom) Power, Katie (Paul) Leclerc, and Kyle (Monica) Bouchard. He was blessed to be a Grampa to 9 grandchildren: Otis & Macy, Maeve, Max, & Marleigh, Lauren & Ryan, and Willow & Levi. He also leaves behind his sister, Judy, and her partner, Kim.
The family is eternally grateful for all who have supported Michael over the years: his neighbors who have treated him like family, IBM friends, Thursday night bowling buddies, RV friends, his long-time doctor and friend, and his Jeep crew. You know who you are.
The family also wishes to thank the medical care team at University of Washington Medical Center – Montlake 6SA for their care and support for Mike during the final weeks of his life.
A celebration of Michael’s life is planned for the weekend of July 15th 2023, in Vermont. Details will be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate in Michael’s name to the or to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle.
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