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Harry passed away peacefully and with dignity at the age of 91, surrounded by his family at Ed’s House Northumberland Hospice on Saturday April 20th. Loved companion of Dorothy de Lisle, devoted husband of the late Carol Knapper (nee Young) and caring father to his children Keith and wife Michele, Elizabeth Russell and husband Steve, and Andrew and wife Rachel Hirst. Beloved grandfather to Alexander (Taylor), Emma (Jake), Peter (Emma), Christopher (Emily), Margaret (Ben), Joseph, and Noah, and great grandfather to Valley Rose, Andie and Mackie. He is survived by his sister Ada Taminga of Coral Springs, Florida and was predeceased by his four brothers Engel, Joe, Albert and Paul, and his four sisters Emma, Grace, Aletta and Tina.
The family would like to extend a most sincere thank you to Dr. Xi and the wonderful staff at Northumberland Hills Hospital and at Ed’s House for their care and compassion for Harry and the family. As per Harry’s wishes cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make a memorial donation to Northumberland Hills Hospital Carol Knapper Endowment Fund or Ed’s House Northumberland Hospice.
All friends, kith and kin are invited to attend a celebration of Harry’s life at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 200 King St., W., Cobourg on Friday, April 26 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. The service will be live-streamed for those unable to attend.
Harry Knapper was born in Windsor Ontario, one of ten children of Alice and Henry Knapper. He received his BA degree from Western University and then his Masters degree from the University of Toronto. He was commissioned in the Royal Canadian Air Force and stationed at Foymount, ON as a fighter controller. A lifelong educator, he spent 37 years in educational administration as a teacher, school principal, school inspector and school board Superintendent. His support of the local community was always evident as he was a charter member of the original Port Hope & Cobourg hospital board, past chair of the Cobourg Library Board and Planning Advisory Committee and as a past member of the Committee of Adjustment.
Harry was an active volunteer helping out at Northumberland Hills hospital and as a driver for community care dialysis patients. He met so many wonderful people and friends as past President and member of the 401 Wing - Air Force Association of Canada, the Cobourg Lawn Bowling and Shortmat Bowling Clubs, the Cobourg District Probus Club and the Cobourg Stamp Club. He was a former elder at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, former treasurer and a founding member of the Northumberland Orchestra and Choir.
Married to Carol Anne Knapper (nee Young) for over 50 years, Harry’s lifelong interests were stamp collecting and displaying his collections at many stamp club shows, nordic skiing locally in Northumberland forest, lawn bowling, choral singing, curling, playing tennis, Scottish country dancing and supporting the Willow Beach Field Naturalists.
Harry enjoyed meeting many new friends through Probus, and of course, catching up with the boys at the coffee club at the Dutch Oven and MacCoubreys. He was a great global traveller and explored many countries and culture. From the moment Dorothy and Harry connected, he was captivated by Dorothy’s grace, wit, and warmth. Together, they shared countless adventures, traveling abroad and locally their bond growing stronger with each passing year.
Harry adored Dorothy with every fiber of his being, cherishing her presence and treasuring every moment they spent together. Whether it was a quiet evening at home watching football or an exciting trip to their favorite destinations, and coffee every Saturday morning Harry found joy in simply being by her side. Their love was a beacon of light, illuminating the lives of all who knew them.
Their days were filled with laughter, shared dreams, and unwavering support for one another. Dorothy was Harry’s rock, his confidante, and his greatest source of happiness. Though Harry may have departed this world, the love he shared with Dorothy will live on forever in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to witness it. He maintained his strong Christian faith throughout his life. He and his big smile will be greatly missed.
Keith, Elizabeth and Family, There are never any truly comforting words when one is grieving. Emerson wrote” it is not length of life, but depth of life”, and truly your dad (Harry) not only had a long life, but a remarkable one as well. We wish there was more that we could express. We send you our deepest sympathy, Phillippa and Juliet Wilmer
Keith - Elizabeth and Andrew - I was shocked yesterday Monday April 29 2024 to read the obit of my late brother-in- law Harry Oumke Knapper who had passed April 20 2024. To the family and their children I send my condolences. Suzanne Whyte Sarnia (sister of late Carol Knapper)
Our deepest sympathy to Dorothy and the Knapper family. Harry lived life to the fullest. His warmth and kindness touched the hearts of so many. Harry was such a nice gentleman - he will be missed lots.
My condolences to all of the Knapper family. Uncle Harry and I had many phone chats over these last years. I especially enjoyed Facetiming and seeing him hold the phone up to his ear! He will be greatly missed.
Our condolences to the Knapper family on the loss of your father .
Curry and I had the pleasure of spending time with Harry and Dorothy on several occasions. Most recently, Dorothy and Harry came for a visit just before Christmas. While Dorothy and I were off doing some last minute shopping, Harry (at 91) was kicking Curry’s but at Scrabble! Harry was such a delight to be with. He was interested, engaged and curious. It was clear that he and Dorothy (my Aunt) had a deep and wonderful connection. Harry, you will be missed. Curry and I are so glad we had the opportunity to get to know you.
To all the Knapper Family - Please accept our condolences on your loss. Uncle Harry will be missed by all of us, we will always have special memories of Uncle Harry and the family and all the nice times had by all when the huge Knapper Family would get together for special occasions all through the years in the Windsor area . Larry and Alice Oliver
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Community Living Trent Highlands
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
We are sorry for the loss of Harry, or Mr Knapper to us ( he always said just call me Harry) and yet we are grateful for the life he lived. Walking through Cobourg we would often meet and chat. Always a catch up on the family of which, you could tell, he was so proud. He will be missed. Our best to his family .
We are sorry he has left but we will have many memories to have to keep and wish that you all have the same.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
We shall miss our dear friend Harry and feel so blessed to have known him. He has shown us what it is to age well, and how, at age 90, he could still embrace adventure with the enthusiasm of a young person when a group of us went on a trip to Cobalt. At every opportunity since then Harry has thanked us for inviting him on that great trip. Harry’s infectious laugh will forever echo in our memories. Our deepest sympathy to Dorothy and to the Knapper family.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
St. Peter's Church Building Fund
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
To all the Knapper family. Please accept our sincere condolences on the loss of Harry. We have known him for many years through the education system, lawn bowling and Probus. He will be missed.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
My sincere condolences to Harry's children, Keith, Elizabeth, Andrew, their families and also to his dear friend Dorothy. He was a lovely man and touched many people's lifes. My husband (late Richard Cameron) and I shared many happy occasions with Harry and Carol. I feel very honoured to have known him. He will be missed.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Our condolences to the Knapper family and Dorothy. We haven’t known Harry a long but will treasure our friendship with him. His laughter, his warmth, his quick wit, his love of socializing, his great sense of humour and his zest for life will never be forgotten. He served his community well and will be missed. He has left all of us with many wonderful memories
I first met Harry when he was a customer at the Men's Shoe store I managed in Toronto. We bonded much later when, at Cobourg Northshore Probus Club, we found out we both had Pace Makers installed within weeks of each other. He will be missed.
To all of Harry's family, Dorothy de Lisle, and other friends, we send our sincere and heartfelt condolences. Carol Anne and I met Harry late in 2016 as new members to St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church (Cobourg). There we shared the choir loft with him and Harry and I sat beside each other. Of personal significance was his invitation to us to come to his lovely home for Family Day the next February; what a generous and kind offer which we were delighted to accept. At each Remembrance Day Sunday at St. Andrew's, he was so proud to wear his RCAF blazer. He, Peter Sandziuk (RCMP) and myself (ret'd 48th Highlanders of Canada) shared duties to place wreaths during the Act of Remembrance. We always enjoyed our time with Harry at church and beyond and when Dorothy was with him, it was extra special. As we have moved to British Columbia in September 2023, we sadly can not attend the Celebration of Life. We will continue to remember, with kind great respect and affection, our friend Harry Knapper. Blessing to each of you. for Carol Anne and myself, Warmest Regards, Brian MacInnes
A life well lived! What more could he have accomplished? Our paths crossed over the years through work and social activities. HOK was loved and cherished by many.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
My condolences to all the Knapper family. Harry was a true gentleman with a great smile and a twinkle in his eye. He served the community that he loved with such dedication. "A Life Well Lived" to be sure!
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation
Our condolences Keith, Elizabeth, Andrew and families in the passing of your father.🙏 Russ and Brenda Knapper
Dorothy, Keith, Michelle and family, What a marvelous writeup of a life well lived. We wish you all the best at this time of loss.
Our deepest condolences to Dorothy and all the Knapper family. Our friendship with Harry goes back more than 50 years. We have many wonderful memories of cross-country skiing and biking trips with Harry and Carol and many Christmas Eves spent at the Knapper home. More recently we have enjoyed a deep friendship with Harry and Dorothy. We will truly miss our good friend Harry.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation
Harry was my superintendent when I first started working for the school board in 1980. He was a wonderful mentor and helped me through my first few years as a principal. My wife Lois and Carol and Harry and I , attended a conference together and we came to know them as the wonderful folks that they were. He was always a man who enjoyed helping others. I am grateful to have known him. lois and I send our condolences.
Since moving to Cobourg several years ago, we were privileged to get to know Harry and count him as a friend. He was a true gentleman and will be greatly missed.
Keith and the rest of the Knapper family . Sorry to here that Harry has passed,sounds like he lived a very full life.Our condolences.
Keith and the rest of the Knapper family . Sorry to here that Harry has passed,sounds like he lived a very full life.Our condolences.
I was saddened to hear of his passing. Harry was an active member of the Northumberland Forest Skiers and helped maintain the trails prior to the County resumed ownership. He was also a member of the Cobourg Cycling Club many years ago. Occasionally, during my rehab, I would walk with Harry at the Cobourg Community Centre. He was an involved member of our community. Harry will be missed.
Condolences from our family to yours Andrew, Keith and Elizabeth. Many fond memories from Cobourg, the cottage and military college visits. Gratitude for the support and inspiration Harry gave me in my own journey into the field of education.
I was sad to hear of his passing. Harry was an active member of the Northumberland Forest Skiers and helped maintain the trails prior to the County resumed ownership. He was also a member of the Cobourg Cycling Club many years ago. Occasionally, during my rehab, I would walk with Harry at the Cobourg Community Centre. He was an involved member of our community. Harry will be missed.
Andrew and Knapper family, we are so sorry for your loss. I met Harry once when Andrew got married. He was a charming man. He will be missed. you are in our prayers.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Andrew and family. Our sincerest condolences for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
I first met Harry as he evaluated my teaching MANY years ago. Since that time we have interacted in various settings. His quick smile and interest in those around him were always evident. He was a true gentleman and will be sorely missed. Sincere condolences.
So sorry to hear that Harry has passed away! He was a true gentleman. God bless!
Harry will indeed be missed by all who knew him ... Rest in peace my friend !!!!
Dear Friends, Sincere condolences on your loss. So glad you were there able to support him and guide him in those final months. He will truly find rest now. Kyle and Brian Farquhar
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Knapper Family: Sorry to learn of your loss, Harry was a great friend for many years and will be missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Our condolences to Harry’s family. He was a great friend and will be sadly missed.
RIP dear friend. Memories are the strength that provide progress for those left behind.
Harry dedicated huge amounts of his time to a variety of causes and personal interests. I will miss seeing him walking downtown with his Nordic poles. He will be sorely missed by his family and his many acquaintances. Sincere condolences to the Knapper family. Harry Oumke Knapper July 17, 1932 - April 20, 2024 ~ REST IN PEACE ~
We will all miss your big smile. A memorial donation has been made to Ed’s House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Lost for words! His generosity and ability to make you feel like family will never be forgotten. ❤️
I am so sorry to hear of Harry's passing. Always had good conversations with him. Hugs a d love to you. Naomi & Ryan
My thoughts and prayers are with all the Knapper family at this time. Knew Harry through St. Andrews, babysitting the children and community events. His interests were diverse and his support of youth was evident. Bless him
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
We were sorry to hear of Harry's passing. We send our deepest condolences to all of the family. He will be greatly missed by his friends at St. Andrew's.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Our deepest condolences on the passing of Harry. RIP Harry
Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to Keith and Michele, Alexander and Emma. Our condolences go to all the family and friends of Harry. May Harry rest in peace and be remembered with fond memories. After reading the obituary it sounds like Harry lived his life to the fullest and make a remarkable impact to many people.
Many happy memories of Harry over more than 50 years! Our deepest condolences to Dorothy, to Keith and Michelle and to all the family. Harry had an amazing life and will be thought of often as time goes on.
Dorothy, Keith and family My deep condolences. Harry will be missed by members of Cobourg Lawn Bowling and Short Mat Clubs who knew him well - some for over 50 years. Donna Longman
On behalf of the NHH Board and Auxiliary, we wish to extend our heartfelt sympathies and condolences on the passing of Harry. Harry brought his lovely, kind-hearted spirit to his role as a volunteer, along with Dorothy, to the Information Desk at NHH. A real gentleman, Harry had a ready smile and between the two, they created a gracious and welcoming team. Dorothy, our thoughts are with you and with the whole family. Harry, you will be missed.
Dear Dorothy, I am very sorry to hear that your soulmate has died. From the description in the obituary it sounds as though the two of you enjoyed a wonderful golden years relationship. My sincere condolences for your loss
My deepest condolences to you and your family at the passing of your father, grandfather, and uncle. He was a wonderful man.. always with a smile and a kind word. He will be missed.