Mary Knape

TRAVERSE CITY — Mary Eileen Knape, 48, of Traverse City, died Monday morning, Dec. 6, 2010, at her home, surrounded by members of her loving family. She now finds peace in the arms of the Lord, after a three-year struggle with cancer.Born Aug. 26, 1962, in Lansing, she was one of six children of Robert Eugene and Mary Ellen (Early) Wood. On Oct. 5, 1985, at Resurrection Catholic Church in Lansing, she married Stephen Knape. Their marriage of 25 years was filled with much love, respect and devotion to their children.For over 13 years Eileen was employed by East Traverse Catholic Federal Credit Union, where she loved every minute of the day working with her fellow employees and helping members.Eileen was a longtime member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, where she found great comfort in attending Mass and participating in church activities. She had a strong devotion to Mary and prayed the rosary on a daily basis. Eileen was a true Christian who, along with her husband, believed in a strong Catholic education for their children. They were loyal supporters of Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools, from where their children either graduated or are still attending. Eileen relished sharing her time with others by serving as the Band Booster Treasurer.She was an accomplished pianist who passed on her gift of music to her children. Eileen will be fondly remembered for her unconditional love, unfailing faith and her strong ability to encourage the interests of her husband and children.She is survived by her husband, Stephen G. Knape, of Traverse City; children, Mary Emma (John) LaCross, of Sterling Heights, Elizabeth Knape, a student at Alma College, and Stephen R. Knape, at home; mother, Mary Ellen Wood, of Okemos; mother-in-law, Mary C. Knape, of Grand Rapids; siblings, Katherine Wood, Susan Canen, James (Julie) Wood and John Wood; along with many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Her memory will also be cherished by her extended family at Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools and East Traverse Catholic Federal Credit Union.Eileen was preceded in death by her father, Robert E. Wood Sr.; brother, Robert E. Wood Jr.; brother-in-law, Brad Canen; and father-in-law, Richard S. Knape Sr.Friends are welcomed to visit with the family at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home on Thursday, Dec. 9, 2010, from noon to 2 p.m. Visitation will continue at the St. Patrick Catholic Church from 5 to 8 p.m., with a Vigil Service at 7 p.m., followed by a rosary recitation. A Mass will be offered at St. Patrick Catholic Church on Friday, Dec. 10, 2010, at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Fr. Donald Geyman serving as the celebrant. Also, con-celebrating the service will be the Rev. Fr. William Lipscomb and the Rev. Fr. Gerald Micketti. Graveside services followed by burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Lansing on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2010, at 1 p.m.The family has suggested that any memorial contribution be directed to Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools or to St. Patrick Catholic Church. Envelopes will be available either at the funeral home or church.Kindly share your memories with the family on their online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. Arrangements were made with the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.

Mary Knape

December 6, 2010