Bobbie Knopp, age 88, passed away at home Monday, May 10, 2021.
He was born in Hancock County, Indiana on October 15, 1932, to Luther Marcellus and Mary (Andis) Knopp. He married Janice Sharlene (Taylor) Knopp on April 13, 1956, and she survives.
In addition to his devoted wife of 65 years, Mr. Knopp is survived by five children: Brenda Crenshaw, Shelbyville; Steve (wife Debbie) Knopp, Salem, Indiana; Roy Knopp (spouse Gretchen Morgan), Shelbyville; Carla Knopp and Lisa Knopp, both of Indianapolis. Three of nine siblings survive: brother Volney (Smokey) Knopp, of Leavenworth, Indiana; and sisters Patsy Martin, Danville, Illinois; and Carol Sue Jackson, Indianapolis, Indiana; and sister-in-law, Marilyn Huxham. Grandchildren include: Aaron, Ryan, Amber, and David Knopp. Additional grandchildren through marriage: Donna Domiano and Michelle Morgan; and Dean Morgan (deceased). At the time of his death, Bob had nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Bobbie was preceded in death by: brothers, Billy and James Knopp; half-brothers Donald and Ray Knopp; sister Peggy Knopp Lahey; half-sister Evelyn Spencer; and son-in-law John Crenshaw.
Bobbie graduated in 1950 from Morristown High School, where he actively participated in sports, including basketball and track, and served as class president. Enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1951, he participated in the USAF Security Services. Following his honorable discharge in 1955, Mr. Knopp began working for G.E. in Shelbyville, where he met his future wife. Following a short stint as a Jewel Tea route salesman, he was hired in advertising by The Shelbyville News, eventually retiring in 1989.
During his lifetime Mr. Knopp enjoyed fishing, nature, shooting clay pigeons, playing Rook and Euchre card games, working crossword puzzles (in ink), and finding cars for his family and friends.
He was an accomplished archer, and the greatest cheerleader for his wife’s participation in the sport. The Blue River Bowmen club was reactivated by Bobbie and his friend, Bill Hewitt, including establishing local indoor and outdoor ranges. His accomplishments included several State archery men’s championships. He held lifetime memberships in the Indiana Field Archery Association (IFAA), the National Field Archery Association, and served in archery leadership roles at the local and state levels. In 1995, he and his wife were recognized with IFAA Lifetime Achievement awards. In the community, Bobbie promoted archery, supported Junior Achievement, and served at the annual 4-H hotdog fest.
He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, where he had served as a Sunday school superintendent.
Bobbie’s greatest enjoyment was spending time with his family and friends. He was loyal, disciplined, and had a sense of humor. For several years he met medical challenges head-on and overcame what doctors considered terminal conditions. He is pain-free and at peace now.
Following cremation, a graveside service with military rites will be held on Friday, May 14, at 11:00 A.M. at Whispering Hope Memorial Gardens, Shelbyville. Steve Knopp, a son, will preside over the service. Please follow Covid precautions.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to the Shelbyville Girls/Boys Club or the donor’s favorite charity.
Funeral Directors Greg, Sheila, and Stuart Parks are honored to serve the Knopp family. Online condolences may be shared at www.murphparks.com.
