Harold Cowles Knapp

Harold grew up in the town of Rochester Minnesota, and graduated from Rochester High in June, 1932.

During the “Great Depression,” Harold was the sole support for his mother and two younger brothers Richard and Willard.

On December 7th, 1940, Harold was married to wife Dorothy in Rochester, Minnesota. Soon after the wedding, they moved to Southern California where they raised two boys, Bruce and John.

During World War II, Harold worked for the war effort at Douglas Aircraft Company in Long Beach. He also served in the Pacific Coast Riflemen (a war defense group started by the Long Beach Police Department). After leaving Douglas, he worked as structural steel draftsman for many years after until he retired.

In 1952, Harold and Dorothy moved from their Long Beach residence to the neighboring city of Lakewood, and lived there until his passing. They are/were the last living charter members of St. Timothy's Lutheran church of Lakewood.

In addition to his everyday work, Harold was a performer and had a passion for music. He played for many senior groups and church groups/functions throughout the years, entertaining with his guitar, harmonica, and singing prowess.

Harold was also a BIG hunter. Growing up as a boy in the midwest, he found his love for hunting, not by choice, but out of necessity. He especially loved duck hunting, and his enthusiasm for the sport stayed with him until his final years.

He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Dorothy; his younger brother Richard (Dick); his two sons Bruce and John; his daughters-in-law Pamela and Lynn; his grandsons Ken and Wayne and their wives Lori and Caryn; his great-grandchildren: Travis, Joe, Emma, Ava, Brad, and Ford.

Harold (Baba) had a wonderful life filled with a loving family and many many friends. He will be greatly missed.

Please sign the guest book at www.luybenfamilyd-m.com (562) 425-6401