Ret. MSG Thomas Knopf Obituary (1957 - 2021)

Retired MSG Thomas Richard Knopf, 64, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, June 9, 2021. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Joan and James Knopf. Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 12 years, Dorothy; two sisters, JoAnn Mecholasky and Michelle Ronin; two brothers, Robert and James Knopf; two step-sons, Ryan and Justin; and two grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, friends and family. Thomas served his country for over 35 years in the US Army. He was a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, and became ranked as a Jumpmaster, then spent the rest of his career in Civil Affairs. He served several tours in Iraq, a tour in Bosnia, Granada and Panama. Over the years, he was awarded many decorations to include the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with 30 year device- Gold and the Bronze Star. He was a volunteer fireman in his earlier years, a member of the VFW and the American Legion. Thomas was known to be a friendly, kind, and helpful man, who would give you the shirt off of his back if you needed it. He loved his family, and extended family. A graveside service, with military honors, will be held in Thomas' honor on Friday, June 18, 2021 at 3:00 PM at Sandhills State Veteran's Cemetery. There will be a visitation held from 1:00 PM until 2:30 PM at Adcock Funeral Home and Crematory in Spring Lake. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the Wounded Warriors Association at www.woundedwarriorproject.org/