Born in Bridgeport, CT on February 11, 1940, Dan was the son of the late Edward and Dora Ward Knopf. He was a 1958 graduate of Newtown High School in Newtown, CT.
He married the love of his life on June 24, 1961 in Bedford Hills, NY. Margaret “Peggy” Thornfeldt became his bride and lifelong partner.
Dan was a proud member of the Connecticut National Guard, serving from April 1962 to March 1968. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant while serving.
Dan worked in the aerospace field for 26 years as a lab technician in Quality Control for Aero Gasket in Meriden, CT. Upon moving to Rathbone, he operated his own construction business for 15 years. He was then called to the ministry as a Licensed Local Pastor for 13 years. He pastored Methodist Churches in Alfred, Troupsburg, Greenwood and South Canisteo.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Peggy and three children, Michael (Kathy) Knopf of Rathbone, NY, David (Vicki) Knopf of Salem, CT and Krista (Tom) Armentano of Painted Post, NY, 11 grandchildren, 2 great grand daughters, his brother, Richard (Zina) Knopf of Stratford, CT and several nieces and nephews in Maine and Connecticut.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters, Nancy Lewis and Lucy Knopf and a granddaughter, Michaela.
Friends may call on Monday, February 20 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the H.P. Smith & Son Inc. Funeral Home, 1607 Main St. Woodhull, NY. Dan’s funeral services will be conducted on Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the United Presbyterian Church of Hornell with Pastor Katherine Griffis officiating.
Burial will be in Angel’s Gate at Button Hill Farm in Rathbone.
Memorials in Dan’s name may be made to the American Cancer Society.
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