Walter Knapp, Jr.

Walter F. Knapp, Jr.

Former Roswell resident Walter F. Knapp, Jr. passed away on June 10, 2012 at his home in Mandeville, LA.

Walter was born on December 17, 1928 in West Point, Virginia to Walter F. and Mary Elizabeth Kanpp who preceded him in death. Walter and Ida Mae Godby were married on April 5, 1957 in Lovington, NM. She survives him along with their children, son Walter Debra Knapp of Cut Off, LA daughters Judy Van Norman Dave Yates fo Mobile, AL, Jeanne J0e Montana of Saucier, MS, Elizabeth David Garland of Mandeville, LA and Molly Crego of Grapevine,TX. Also surviving are one brother Alfred Knapp of Richmond, VA ten grandchilden and eight greatgrandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Walter joined the Air Force and was stationed at Walker AFB in Roswell where he found his home. He went to work for Harry James at what was then Roswell Laundry before it was sold to American Linen. He was transferred to Gulfport, MS and retired from American Linen in 1987. Walter was well known for his involvement and love for sports, having played professional baseball for the Philadephia Phillies and worked as a scout for the Cleveland Indians. He coached American Legion Baseball in both Roswell and Gulfport. He also was official for football, basketball and baseball at both the high school and college levels. He was inducted into the New Mexico Officials Association Hall of Fame in 2005 which he considered one of his greatest honors. Walter was an active member of the Catholic Church and a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Services were held on June 14, 2012 in Covington, LA with interment at Biloxi National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family request contributions in memory of Mr. Knapp are made to Chaves County Casa, 500 N. Main, Roswell, NM 88201 or Assurance Home, 1000 E. 18th St., Roswell, NM 88201.

Cemetery