Evelyn Jane Knape

Evelyn Jane Knape, born on October 25, 1936, passed away peacefully at home on August 18, 2025, with her husband at her side. A woman of strong Christian faith, Evelyn cherished her beliefs and found comfort and strength in her spirituality throughout her life. She was known for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love for her family and friends.

Evelyn loved animals and found joy in caring for her pets. She also had a passion for reading, often losing herself in books.

Evelyn graduated from the Lutheran High School in Houston, TX in 1954 as Salutatorian. She also held positions of Class Treasurer and Editor-in-Chief of the 1954 Pioneer yearbook. Evelyn worked for Texaco immediately out of high school until 1962, at which time she retired to raise her family.

She was preceded in death by her father, Walter J. F. Hillegeist; her mother, Anna Steinhagen Hillegeist; and her brother, Wesley Hillegeist. Evelyn showed an exceptional level of love, devotion and care for Wesley, who was disabled, throughout his lifetime.

Evelyn is survived by her devoted husband, Maury K. Knape, her loving children, Kevin K. Knape and wife Elizabeth, Laurie K. Rathburn and husband Lloyd Rathburn, and her cherished grandchildren, David Brandtner, Kaycie Rathburn, Ella and Austin Knape, and nephews Eric, Noel, and Carlton Knape. Her gentle spirit, faith in Christ, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.

The family invites those who knew her to share in remembering her kindness and faith.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association in her memory at https://www.alz.org/.

A visitation for Evelyn will be held Sunday, August 24, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023. A funeral service at church will occur Monday, August 25, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Joy Summerwood, 14450 Woodson Park Dr, Houston, TX 77044. A committal service will occur Monday, August 25, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery, 6900 Lawndale St, Houston, TX 77023.