John A. "Jack" Knapp

John A. “Jack” Knapp, Age 77, of Church Street, Wellsburg, NY passed away Tuesday, June 2, 2015 at the Robert Packer Hospital. Jack was born June 28, 1937 in Elmira, NY son of the late Ernest and Hazel Bell (Reed) Knapp. Jack was a veteran of the US Navy serving from 1955 to 1959. He was retired following 31 1/2 years of service from Elmira City School District where he was Head Custodian finishing his career in the Pine City School. Following retirement Jack was also employed by the Village of Wellsburg and the Town of Ashland, in Wellsburg he was head of the Water Department and Ashland worked in various positions and enjoyed being the “Wing Man” during the snow plowing season. He would often been seen on his Zero Turn Lawn Mower at the Village and Town Hall mowing lawns. Jack also worked at Albee GMC where he transported trucks and cars for the dealership. He was a tireless worker and would often be there to help others and expect nothing in return. He was Lifetime Member of the Wellsburg Volunteer Fire Department where he served as Past Chief; he was just presented an award for 51 years of service to the department. He enjoyed being the pit master of the fire department chicken BBQs, Easter Egg Hunt and the children’s Christmas Party for many years. He also volunteered his time with the Boy Scouts Soap Box Derby, and delivered Christmas gifts for the Arctic League. He was a true community servant who will be missed by his loving family and friends.

Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Mary & Chris Stanton of Elmira, his companion of 23 years Sharon Kelly of Wellsburg, Sharon’s family, Teresa (Butch) Palmer of Elmira, Bill & (Becky) Kelly of Elmira, Joe Kelly of Corning, Dan (Dianna) Kelly of Elmira, many grandchildren & great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Jack was predeceased by his parents, 13 siblings and wife Carroll Ann Knapp on January 3, 1987.

Family and friends are invited to call on Saturday, June 6, 2015 from 2 to 4 PM at the Roberts Funeral Home, Inc. 279 Main Street, Wellsburg, NY. Jack’s memorial service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 4 PM with Rev. Patrick Holder officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the Chemung County Veterans Honor Squad. Interment will be in Ashland Cemetery, Wellsburg, NY.

Memorials in Jack’s memory may be made to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, 388 Upper Oakwood Drive, Elmira, NY 14903 or to the Arctic League, P.O. Box 113 Elmira, NY 14902.