John David Knapp

John David Knapp, 73, passed away early Sunday at his home surrounded by loved ones. John was a dedicated civil servant, loving husband and father, and a man who carried deep respect and genuine care for everyone he met. He was always eager to listen and took a sincere interest in the lives of others.

He was born in Los Angeles, California, to Willard and Rose Knapp. He grew up in a loving home alongside his older brother, Steven, and younger brother, Mark. The family celebrated their Armenian heritage from his mothers side attending the Holy Martyrs Church. He stayed close to his family even after moving to Pocatello to pursue college. His dedication to family ties continued throughout his life.

John was married to Marie Johnson from 1985 - 1994. Together they raised and shared a continued love for their three children; Jacob, Scotty, and Gabrielle. He always worked hard to ensure the children were taken care of and encouraged activities that helped shape who they are today. In 2005 John married Tonja after dating, while each-others children became close friends over the white picket fence that separated their back yards. John built a step bridge over the fence so the kids could play together, but that also became a bridge to a long lasting marriage. Tonja remained a dedicated partner through all of John’s hardships and shared a love of adventure. 

John was very active in the outdoors. He loved exploring the outdoors through all seasons. In winter time he enjoyed cross country skiing, downhill, and even learned to snowboard so he could do it with his children. An avid runner and cyclist in the summer, his adventures spanned much of Idaho and beyond. He also loved playing tennis, and taught his kids to enjoy the game. After moving to Pocatello, John became a union carpenter. His love for woodwork remained throughout his life, he loved making furniture, art, and using his skills to improve his home. He loved playing piano and singing, which was a staple of home life. Practicing guitar was a way to honor his oldest brother, who was an accomplished flamenco artist.

John joined the fire department of Pocatello in 1987, and would continue to serve the community until he retired. As a paramedic with the PFD, he strived to help all of the greater Pocatello area. He also spent 10 years as the Deputy Coroner for Bannock County, and taught ASL at ISU where he thoroughly enjoyed sharing his knowledge. John was very involved in community outreach programs with the fire department such as Paint Fest and Fill the Boot.

After retiring from his beloved career as a Paramedic, he spent his time soaking in every joy life had to offer. Whether it was his proud streak of cross country skiing nearly every day through winter, golfing with friends in the summer, and shady nighttime walks with his 4 legged companion and his wife. If he wasn’t leaving his print on every trail in the local area or showing up for his grandkids, he was traveling in tandem with his wife Tonja. From Mexico to Alaska and many other adventures he was bound to experience it all and of course make new friends.

Truly, through every earned life experience that built his character and not only shaped the great man he became, he shared his enthusiasm and wisdom of life with those around him. His life was a true show of strength, wisdom, love, and persistence that carried him through his 20+ year battle with cancer before leaving behind his wife, children, grandchildren.

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