It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Dana Leon Knapp, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, who departed this life on May 25, 2025 at the age of 64.
Born on June 29, 1960, Dana was a family man and great friend to many. He lived a full and meaningful life marked by kindness, dedication, and a deep love for music. As a passionate drummer, he played in several bands over the course of his life. Music was one of his greatest joys, and he shared it generously with all who knew him.
Dana also found fulfillment in his long career as a school bus driver, a role he held for 40 years, including several years safely driving special needs students. He took great pride in his work and genuinely enjoyed connecting with the students he transported each day. His warm smile and steady presence left a lasting impression on generations of families.
Above all else, the greatest source of joy in Dana’s life was his family, including his loving and devoted wife, Cyndi. Among the many roles he filled in the lives of friends and family, he was most proud of being a husband, father, and grandfather. The love he had for his family gave him a deep sense of pride and meaning in this life.
He is survived by his wife, Cyndi (Pollard) Knapp; his son, Bruce (Crystal) Knapp, and daughters, Rita (Eric) Stricklin and Dana (Amber) Knapp. He also loved his blended family which consisted of daughters, Jessica Pollard, Lacey (Kyle) Roach, and Miranda (David) Davis. He also leaves behind 17 grandchildren and five siblings: Keith (Patty) Knapp, Alice (Bob) Lapekas, Margaret (Steve) Fleckenstein, Mary Knapp, and Amy (Paul) Bertoldi.
Dana was preceded in death by his father and mother, Keith and Rita Knapp, as well as his brothers, John, Jim (Judy), and Mark (Marilyn), and a sister, Joanne “Chris” (Jim) Carow.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 29th, 2025, from 3-5 p.m., at the First Congregational Church, Kalamazoo. Family and close friends are welcome to attend.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
