Obituary of Michael John Knipper

Michael J. Knipper, 53, of Earlville, Iowa passed away Sunday, October 13, 2024, at home surrounded by his loved ones after a short battle with pancreatic cancer leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and community spirit that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Thursday morning from 9 to 10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral mass.

A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 17, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earlville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate, and Deacon Jim Steger will assist.

Michael was born on October 21, 1970, in Manchester, Iowa, the son of James and Bonnie (Helle) Knipper.  He grew up with a deep love for the land, learning the values of patience and hard work on the family farm.  He carried on that tradition working with his family on that farm until the end.  His hands were calloused from years of honest work, and his heart was full of pride for the crops he nurtured and the animals he cared for.

More than just a farmer, Mike was a devoted husband and father. He married Becky Greenwood on November 21, 1998, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa.  Of that union, three children were born.  His family was his greatest joy.  He enjoyed attending their school events and could often be heard yelling the loudest on the sideline or in the stands.  He loved a good game of cards with friends, spending a weekend at deer camp, or watching the Cowboys on a quiet Sunday afternoon.

Though his time with us was too short, the impact of Mike’s life will endure in the hearts of his family and friends.  His devotion to his family, his love of farming, and his unwavering strength will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Becky, his children, Allison (Justin Krapfl), Erin, and Dylan Knipper, all of Earlville, his mother, Bonnie Knipper of Earlville, his siblings, Angie (Dan) Ries, Peggy (Joe) Hildebrand, all of Manchester, Pete (Amanda) Knipper, Luke (Dawn) Knipper, all of Earlville, his in-laws, Dennis (Sue) Greenwood of Dyersville, Deb (Joe) Pins of Earlville, and Chris Greenwood of Farley, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father, James Knipper, his grandparents, Laverne and Alice Knipper and Marvin and Olga Helle, a niece, Karli Rose Hoeger, a nephew, Reece James Knipper, and his parents-in-law, Raymond and Verna Greenwood.

The Knipper family would like to thank Dyersville Family Practice, Medical Associates Clinic and MercyOne Hospital of Dubuque, MercyOne Dubuque Cancer Center, and Hospice of Dubuque for all the compassionate care and support they received throughout Mike’s illness.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.