Roy G. Knapp, 76, of Franklin, NY, passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. Born in Margaretville, NY, on April 8, 1949, to the late George W. and Marion A. Knapp, Roy was the eldest son and second of their four children.

In his early years, Roy enjoyed working on classic cars—especially his beloved Chevy Super Sport Impala—riding his motorcycle, and being an avid outdoorsman. He had a lifelong love for hunting, fishing, trapping, and tanning hides. Throughout his career, Roy wore many hats: mechanic, farmer, construction, landscaping, and heavy equipment operator. A career highlight was transforming the landscape and building ponds for Yoko Ono in Franklin.

Beyond work, Roy’s greatest joy came from time with family and friends. He cherished hunting trips to Maine and Montana with his father and close friends. As a true outdoorsman, he taught his three children from a young age how to turkey call, fish, handle a gun, and—most importantly—how to be quiet in the field. He also instilled in them manners, integrity, honesty, and a strong work ethic. Roy spent many days at his pond teaching the younger generations of the family to bait a hook and fish while telling his famous stories. His grandchildren cherished those times, learning the same traditions and skills as their parents.

Roy enjoyed cooking and took pride in preparing meals for his family and friends from the game and fish he caught—meals that will be fondly remembered by all who shared them.

Roy is survived by his loving family: children Nikki Knapp of Litchfield Park, AZ; Crystal Knapp of Wadesboro, NC; and George (Meredith) Knapp of Raleigh, NC; and his nephew, Dustin Hunter of Oneonta, NY, who was like a son to him. He also leaves behind grandchildren Tyler Daley, Zoe and Trynity Dewey, Zeke and Xander Balderamma, and great-granddaughter Aurora Phillips; siblings Randy (Sabrina) Knapp and Shari (Donald) Anderson; his lifelong friend Gerald “Boots” Reed; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Sandra L. Hunter.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025, at Kenneth L. Bennett Funeral Home in Franklin, NY, from 5:30–7:30 p.m.

To honor Roy’s memory, and in lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for contributions to help with final expenses. https://everloved.com/life-of….

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