ELLINWOOD — Gary Frederick Knop, 83, passed away at Kansas Wesley in Wichita, Kan. on Sept. 10th, 2023. Born in Ellinwood, Kan. on Nov. 27th, 1939 he was the son of Leonard C. and Hilda E. (Fuhr) Knop. 

Gary was a lifetime Ellinwood resident graduating from Ellinwood HS in 1957. He worked as a farmhand, for Lenhart Construction, and ran his own sporting goods store. Gary enjoyed gardening, hunting, and fishing. Memberships include St. John Lutheran Church, American Legion #320 & VFW. Gary served in the United States Navy from 1961-1966 and served aboard the USS Midway.

Survivors include son, Canyon Knop; step-daughters, Micci Windholz, Saundra Hopkins, Brandi Smith; sister, Beverly Bownes; son-in-law, Santiago Montes; grandchildren, Devin, Kadon, Trace, Rella, Stephanie, and many nieces and nephews. Gary was preceded in death by his parents and son, Thayne Knop; and sister, Marlene Thomas. 

Cremation has taken place. Celebration of life will take place Sunday, Oct. 1st, 1 p.m. at the American Legion in Ellinwood with military honors from the U.S. Navy honor guard. Memorials are suggested towards funeral expenses in care of Minnis Chapel, PO Box 246, Ellinwood, KS 67526.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Minnis Chapel

P.O. Box 246

Ellinwood, KS 67526

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Sept. 19, 2023