SPARTA – Paul D. Knop, 69, of Sparta, passed away Saturday, January 16, 2021 at Sparta Community Hospital, Sparta, IL.

Paul was born October 3, 1951 in Sparta, IL, to Paul G. and Esther Schnepel Knop.  He married Nancy C. Svanda on June 20, 1975, at Peace Lutheran Church in Steeleville, IL.  Paul was a retired Operator Engineer and a farmer.  He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Sparta IL, B.B.K. American Legion Post #480, Operators Engineers Local #520, Granite City, IL, and the United Mine Workers of America.

Paul is survived by his wife Nancy C. Knop of Sparta, IL, Children: Heather Moonier (Tyson) of St. Louis, MO, Drew (Jessica Stoner) Knop of Sparta, IL, and Ryan (Jeff Kaegel) Knop of Belleville, IL.  Grandchildren: Shay and Lana Moonier, Tonya Harrison, Ava, Lily and Auston Knop.  Sister Doris (Harry) Rahlfs of Steeleville, IL, Brothers: Delmar Knop of Steeleville, IL, and James A. (Marilyn) Knop of Percy, IL.

Paul is preceded in death by his parents.

Private services will be held January 20, 2021 at St. John's Lutheran Church, Sparta, IL with Reverend Carl Miller officiating.  Burial to follow at Paradise Cemetery, Steeleville, IL.  Memorials may be given to St. John's Lutheran Church or Steeleville FFA and can be mailed to Wilson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 217, Steeleville, IL 62288.  To sign the guestbook, visit www.wilsonsfuneralhome.net .  Due to executive order, face masks must be worn, and social guidelines must be followed.