Wilbert J. Knope Jr.

Wilbert J. Knope Jr. (J.R. to those who knew him) passed away due to COVID-19 and other health issues on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020, at ThedaCare Medical Center-Shawano.

He was born March 23, 1938, in Shawano, a son of the late Wilbert and Lillian (Grosskopf) Knope. J.R. attended St. James Lutheran School and graduated from Shawano High School with the Class of 1956. He then attended Badger Business School in Green Bay. On Feb. 25, 1961, J.R. was united in marriage to the former Elaine Buettner at St. James Lutheran Church where he was a lifelong member. J.R. worked for NEW Office Supply in Green Bay where he was a salesman and, later, a purchasing agent.

J.R. played basketball, golf, bowling and softball. He was a fan of the Milwaukee Brewers, the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Bucks. He enjoyed playing cards, especially Smear, sheepshead and cribbage. In his later years, J.R. enjoyed cutting wood.

Survivors include his loving wife of almost 60 years, Elaine; his daughters, Kelly (Rick) Karcz and Lori (Rik) Acken; his granddaughters, Chelsey Lundquist and Andria Karcz; his step-grandchildren, Kendrick (Abby) Acken, Katie (Josh) Plyter and Keenan Acken; two step-great-grandchildren, Kinley Plyter and Noble Acken; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his infant sister, Patricia; parents-in-law, Delmar and Erna Buettner; and his sister-in-law, Carol Rowan.

A memorial service for Wilbert J. Knope Jr. will be held Saturday, June 12, 2021, at 11:30 a.m. at Mickelson Funeral Service in Shawano. Pastor Mark Drengler will officiate. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. and continue until the time of service. Private burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery at a later date.

Mickelson Funeral and Cremation Service of Shawano is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences at www.mickelsonfs.com.