Roy A. Knapp

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Roy Knapp who passed away on May 3, 2025. He was born in Flushing, Queens on September 2, 1941, to Ruth and William Knapp. Roy was a devoted husband, loving father and cherished grandfather.

Ruth and William wanted a quieter life surrounded by nature for their family, so they said goodbye to Flushing and moved to Carmel, NY when Roy was in the sixth grade. Roy graduated from Carmel High School in 1960. After graduating, he went on to work for The Patent Trader, where he worked as a Print Setter. Later, Roy worked for many years at Controlex in North Salem, NY as Foreman of their Machine Shop Manufacturing Department. His next job brought him back to Carmel High School, where he worked as an Assistant Building Supervisor. After retiring from the schools, Roy began his final and favorite career, babysitter to his two granddaughters. He spent many hours playing games, watching favorite shows together, running them from the bus to dance, Girl Scouts and choir practice. He was able to retire from this position when his oldest granddaughter started driving.

From a young age, Roy enjoyed working with his hands and learning new trades and hobbies. At his various positions, Roy learned how to use all kinds of equipment and heavy machinery. He was always learning how to use new tools and if he couldn’t find the right tool, he would make it himself. During retirement, Roy became an accomplished wood turner and created many, many beautiful pieces from bowls to vases and everything in between. He enjoyed sharing his creations with others and telling all about the tree that the piece came from and the process of how he made it. Roy’s next retirement hobby was welding. His earlier careers fostered this knowledge and it only grew from there. Roy began making all kinds of whimsical creations for the garden, like arbors, spheres, windmills and fences. His favorite part of making all these pieces was giving them to his family and seeing how they were enjoyed.

Roy is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 59 years, Dolores, his children Lori Peck (Alan), Steven Knapp (Jacquelyn) and grandchildren Paige and Ashley Peck and Tyler Knapp. Roy will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His devotion to his family and friends serve as an example for those he leaves behind.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Gilead Presbyterian Church, 7 Church Street, Carmel, NY on June 7th, at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting a donation to the Gilead Food Pantry.