William "Bill" E. Knapp

William E. "Bill" Knapp, 75, passed away on June 29, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri after battling cancer. Born on July 14, 1950, to Marvin and Mary (Palen) Knapp, in Chanute, Kansas, Bill was known for his hardworking nature, sense of humor and famous BBQ beef sandwiches. Bill attended Chanute high school, where his leadership qualities shone brightly as an Eagle scout. Bill’s commitment to community was evident through his active membership with the Elks Lodge. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own and operate Knapp Self Service Grocery in Chanute. On November 20, 1992, Bill married the love of his life, Susan Sluder in Las Vegas, Nevada. The couple made their home in Chanute, Kansas. Bill later served as the Regional Meat Manager for G & W Food in Southeast Kansas. After a successful career, Bill retired in November 2022 and he and Susan moved full time to Grove, Oklahoma, to enjoy their later years. An avid outdoorsman, Bill also relished grilling and smoking meat, often cooking for his cherished family and he was seldom seen without a cold Dr. Pepper in hand. He enjoyed fishing and boating, passions that he shared with friends and family alike. Bill's hobbies also included collecting guns and Corvettes. A devoted sports fan, he supported the Kansas City Chiefs and was a proud follower of Kansas University basketball, celebrating the alma mater of his children. Family was the cornerstone of Bill's life. He adored his grandchildren, creating lasting memories at every opportunity. In September 2025, Bill deepened his spiritual commitments by being baptized and joining Mountain Movers Church, where he found a strong community of faith and fellowship. Bill's legacy of love, humor, and dedication to his family and community will be deeply missed and forever cherished by those who were fortunate to know him. Bill is preceded in death by his parents and daughter-in-law, Tiffany Knapp. Left to cherish his memory, wife, Susan Knapp, children: Casey Godinez (Matt) of Chanute, Adam Sluder (Jessica) of Manvel, TX, Mark Knapp (Haley Carter) of Chanute, KS, Laura Slocum (Chris) of Shawnee, KS and Levi Knapp of Chanute; 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Closed casket visitation for family and friends will be from 5-7pm Sunday, July 5, 2026, and funeral services will be at 10am Monday, July 6, 2026, both at Nichols Stephens Funeral & Cremation Services 10201 US Hwy 59, Grove, OK. Graveside services will be at 3pm Monday, July 6, 2026, at Memorial Park Cemetery 1400 S. Katy Rd, Chanute, Kansas. Donations in Bill’s memory may be made to Mountain Movers Church Building Fund 24000 S. 660 Rd, Wyandotte, Ok 74344.

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William "Bill" E. Knapp

July 14, 1950 - June 29, 2026