A formidable spirit has been silenced. Susan Knapp, age 67, died peacefully Monday night, February 7, 2011, at Centennial Inn in Oshkosh, following a long and ferocious battle with cancer. Despite the many challenges and obstacles Susan faced throughout her life, she was a tornado of determination, and strength. Not one for self-pity, she embraced each new day with renewed optimism. She was a fiercely independent woman, of strong beliefs and opinions; many of us called her "stubborn". But, she knew what she wanted and didn't want, right up to the final days of her life.
Susan was born Sept. 3, 1943, in Shawano, to Kenneth and Lydia Lemke. She attended schools in Shawano and Janesville's School for the Blind. She worked for a number of years for the University of Wisconsin and became the spokesperson for her Union. She loved music, as evidenced by her vast collection of albums collected since her youth. She loved books, and made much use of the audio-books from the American Council for the Blind. She loved to play bingo, have coffee with friends, the Packers, and being involved in church activities. She loved being a part of The Salvation Army. She was someone who needed to keep busy, and she filled her life with many activities and people. She dearly loved her family.
Susan is survived by her daughter Debra; and grandchildren Celeste, Sophia, and Isaac Jr.; daughter Sherrie (Dan), and new grandson, Sawyer. Susan is further survived by her siblings; Dave (Donna), Kathy (Jeff), Diane, Mark (Charko), stepsister Karen (John), and many nieces, and nephews scattered across the country. Susan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gene; her parents, and sister, Mary.
"Death is no more than passing from one room into another. But there's a difference for me, you know. Because in that other room I shall be able to see." Helen Keller
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Seefeld Funeral Chapels, 1025 Oregon Street, where family and friends may gather on Thursday, February 10, from 4:00-5:30 p.m.; with the service directly following at 5:30 p.m. Burial will take place at Lake View Memorial Park. If desired, donations may be given to the Salvation Army in Susan's memory. Please visit www.seefeldfuneral.com to send online condolences to the family.
Seefeld Funeral and
Cremation Services
(920) 236-7750