Share Service Information for Brita Ann Knapp

Obituary

Brita Ann Knapp, 84, of Grandview Heights, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home due to complications from Alzheimer's on April 20, 2025, Brita was born on September 3, 1940 in Wallace, Idaho to Walter Adolph Johnson and Kathleen (Nolan) Johnson. She grew up in Spokane, Washington where she enjoyed riding horses, in particular her horse Snip. She met the love of her life, Norman Knapp, while attending Whitworth College. They married on June 9, 1962, one week after they graduated. 24 hours later they flew to Las Vegas, New Mexico for Norman to attend graduate school at New Mexico Highlands University. Brita was devoted to her growing family and built a home in each place as they moved from New Mexico (where Kenneth was born) to Athens, Ohio (where Randall and Krista were born) to Columbus (where Derrick was born) until they settled at last in Grandview Heights. Brita was a voracious reader, especially of mysteries, and instilled a love of reading in her children. She loved to listen to the records of Elvis Presley and was a fan of Star Trek. After becoming empty-nesters, Brita and Norman traveled the American West, visiting national parks, family and friends. Brita developed a deep interest in bird-watching. At home she enjoyed putting together jigsaw puzzles, particularly those that depicted beautiful landscapes. Late in life she learned to knit and was proud and happy to knit many blankets and dishcloths which were given away to those in need. Brita was a faithful member of Boulevard Presbyterian church for over five decades. She read the Bible daily, reading it through each year, and strove to be loving and kind to all. She is survived by her husband, Norman; her children, Kenny and Francine Knapp, Randy and Shannon Kelsey-Knapp, Krista and William Donnelly, Derrick Knapp; and her grandchildren, Moira and Liam Donnelly and Darby Knapp. She was preceded in death by her sister, Greta Rizzuti; her nephews, Mark and John Nissen; and her grandson, Seamus Donnelly. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Boulevard Presbyterian Church, 1235 Northwest Boulevard Columbus, Ohio 43212. The service will start at 11 a.m. with visitation starting one hour prior. Lunch will be served afterwards. All are welcome.