Harold E. Knapp, 91, of Tonawanda, NY, husband of the late Violet (Price) Knapp, passed away on Thursday, June 14, 2012 in DeGraff Memorial Hospital in North Tonawanda, NY, following a brief illness. Born on January 19, 1921 in San Antonio, TX, he was the son of the late Charles Knapp and the late Anna (Maidment) Whitcher.

Mr. Knapp came to Niagara Falls, NY in 1925 and attended local schools. Harold graduated from the former Trott Vocational High School. He served in the United States Army, during World War II, from November 2, 1942, until his honorable discharge on December 5, 1945. While serving, Mr. Knapp was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, American Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. Prior to his service, during World War II, Harold served in the Civilian Conservation Corps. For twenty-three years, he worked as a Boiler Fireman and Repairman for the Niagara Falls Board of Education, until his retirement in 1986. In the mid-1980’s, Mr. Knapp moved to Tonawanda, NY. Harold was a member of various senior citizens clubs in Niagara Falls, Lewiston and Tonawanda. He served as president of the Solitaire Singles Dance Club. Mr. Knapp was a master woodcarver and carved eagle heads that are used for cane handles for veterans.

Mr. Knapp is survived by his longtime, loving companion, Tomesta ‘Tammy’ Fritz of Tonawanda, NY and her family, Maryann (Richard) Crouch of North Tonawanda, NY, Sandra (late Richard) Fritz of Tonawanda, NY and Robert (Peggy) Fritz of North Tonawanda, NY. Harold is also survived by numerous grandchildren and nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by one sister.

The family will be present to receive friends on Saturday, June 16th from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Chapel of the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (297-9007) where a funeral service will follow at 3:30 p.m. Private interment will be held in Niagara Falls Memorial Park Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to a charity of one’s choice. To leave a personal message for the family, please visit www.ottoredanz.com and www.niagara-gazette/Obituaries