Patricia Knappen

Mrs. Patricia A. Knappen, age 59, of Greenville, passed away Sunday, May 13, 2012 at home under the loving care of her family and Hospice of Michigan. The daughter of Donald and Glenna (Stevens) Stroben, she was born on January 28, 1953 in Grand Rapids. On January 30th, 1970, she married Dennis Knappen and together they enjoyed over 42 years of marriage. Patricia was a graduate of Ottawa Hills High School; she taught tap and jazz dance for many years as well as worked at Steenstra's Bakery for several years. She was dedicated to ensuring the happiness of her grandchildren. Patricia had a passion for helping animals and was a member of HSU, WWF, and ASPCA. Patricia is preceded in death by her parents. Surviving are her husband, Dennis; daughter, Kelly (John) Larsen of Sparta; son, Kurt of Clifford; five grandchildren, Kailey, Carissa, Emilee, Abigail and Isabella; a sister, Jacquelin VerSluis; along with many nieces, nephews and friends. Visitation is Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.at the Christiansen Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 511 S. Franklin St., Greenville. Funeral services are on Friday at 11:00 a.m. at the Sparta United Methodist Church, 54 E. Division St., Sparta, with Pastor Lou Grettenberger officiating. For those considering contributions, please consider the Sparta United Methodist Church. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Patricia Knappen, please visit our flower store.