Gary Carter Knapp, born December 6, 1950 passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at home on June 1, 2024. He grew up running the streets of Wellington with his many comrades.

He was a proud Vietnam Veteran serving in the Army, 11E20 Arm Crewman.

Gary retired after 35 years from The Elyria City Schools. Some may remember seeing him on the roads of Elyria, hemming up traffic, while driving the big John Deere tracker from school to school.

He was a social Member of the United Polish Club (Elyria), a life member of the AMVETS (Elyria), and a member of The Fraternal Order of Eagles (Wellington).

Gary will forever be a fun loving peaceful hippie, embracing the lifestyle and enjoying all of the groovy tunes. He was an avid storyteller, sharing stories of his life's adventures to family and friends. His wit and humor were captivating and everyone enjoyed his company.

His first true love was the National Hot Rod Association, taking his future wife Diane to Norwalk Raceway Park on their first date. He frequented the Elyria Slot Shop for many years, beginning as a teeanger and eventually taking his children. He loved sitting around the dining room table at home playing cards and trivia games with family.

He provided and cared for his family with dignity and pride. He was a steadfast husband and father; always showing unconditional love, support and accepting everyone. His children have wonderful memories of the Knapp family vacations taken to Ohio State Parks, with priceless home videos as cherished reminders.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Diane (née Klingshirn); his three children, Justin (Krysten) Knapp, Ursula (Shaun) Virden, and Mary Knapp; his three grandchildren Ruby, Hazel and Ellis Knapp; brother Kevin (Kim) Knapp; Niece Lisa (David) Ward and Nephews Nathan Patton, Zak (Kim) Bidlake and Kyle (Jamie) Knapp. He was preceded in death by his parents Ellis Oakley Knapp and Thelma Frances (nee Carter) Cassidy; and sister Deborah Patton.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 from 11 a.m. until the time of services beginning at 1 p.m. at Norton-Eastman Funeral Home, 370 South Main St. Wellington. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery with military rites. A party will be held to celebrate Gary's life on Friday, June 14th from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm at Wellington Reservation, 535 Jones Rd. Wellington, OH 44090.

Expressions of sympathy can be given at www.norton-eastmanfuneralhome.com.