Fred “Butch” R. Knapp 83 of Branson, Missouri, passed away on October 4,2026. He was born March 22, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois to Fred and Sophie Knapp. Fred had one sister Jean.
Fred grew up in Bridgeport, Chicago IL. His family later moved to the Gage Park neighborhood where he attended Immaculate Conception Grammar School and Tilden Tech High School, and from an early age he understood the value of earning his way through life. He began working at the age of sixteen for National Tea Co. in the butcher shop. A career that reflected his strong work ethic and steady commitment, which provided the foundation to answer the call to serve his country in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany from 1966-1968. His service was a meaningful part of his life, and it reflected the courage and sense of duty that those who knew him admired. After his discharge from the Service he returned to meat cutting / managing for almost 44 years. In addition to cutting meat he built and sold hot dog wagons.
On November 29, 1980, Fred married Leslie A Corcoran in Palos Park, Illinois at the Wayside Chapel. Together they built a life centered on love, and shared memories. He was a devoted husband and proud father to Donald, Dean (Melissa), Sean (Carly), and his daughter Jacquelyn (Austin). He was also a proud Grandpa/ Grandpappy/ Papa to Collen Knapp, Sarah Izumi, Ethan Izumi, Samantha Izumi, Julien Lewis, Wells Lewis, Guinevere Knapp, Gallien Knapp, and Giovi Knapp.
Upon retiring he moved his wife Leslie and daughter Jackie to the beautiful Ozarks. His three sons remained in the Chicago area and visited often. Fred had great memories of fishing with the boys in Wisconsin and the love for fishing and boating continued here in Branson. Fred also enjoyed golfing, painting, and staying fit. He built an award winning 1923 T bucket that was displayed in the Branson Auto Museum.
Fred enjoyed traveling especially to Puerto Vallarta Mexico, where through his good friend John met and made many great friends.
Through their sons, Fred reconnected with one of his best friends from Bridgeport, Joe Tirrito, and would later take many memorable vacations with him and Karyn. After some searching, he reconnected with another best friend Jim Kozielec and his wife Rosalie. He enjoyed traveling to Henderson, NV. to visit them.
He also enjoyed an ice cold Budweiser and a shot of El Jimador Tequila. In his last days he craved Spumoni ice cream!
Nothing brought him more joy than time spent with his family, his amazing grandchildren and his loyal dogs. A proud Chicago native at heart, he always treasured his trips back home to reconnect with family and old friends. He lived for the people he loved, and he will be deeply missed by them all.
Interment services for Fred will take place on October 23, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. in Missouri Veterans Cemetery with full Military Honors. Celebration of life services for Fred will be held at a later date in Chicago, Illinois.
