STEELEVILLE – Willard R. Knop, 78, of Steeleville, passed away on Monday, March 23, 2020, at Missouri Baptist in St. Louis, Missouri.

Willard was born in Percy, on November 29, 1941, the son of the late Louis and Dora Dierks Knop. He married Elaine Schumaier on March 21, 1998, at St. Mark's Lutheran Church at Steeleville. Willard loved being a farmer and the countless hours he spent driving his tractors. He was a Veteran of the US Army. Willard was a member and former Elder of St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Steeleville; Randolph County Farm Bureau; B.B.K. American Legion Post #480, Steeleville. He was active with St. Mark's and Steeleville School District for over 20 years.

Willard is survived by his wife, Elaine Knop of Steeleville; daughters, Gail L. Knop of Steeleville, Cherie K. Barbre of Carmi, IL, and Leslie J. Duvall of Steeleville; son, David D. Knop of Steeleville; daughter-in-law, Melissa Davitz of Chester; grandchildren, Emily Duvall, Ty & Sloane Barbre, Jonathan Alden and Carter Davitz; two step sisters, Evelyn McVicar of San Antonio, TX and Barbara Ellner of Chester; brother-in-law, Glenwood Degenhardt of Percy; and he was kind and loving to a host of Family and Friends.

Willard was preceded in death by Parents; son, Jonathan Knop; and sister, Allene Degenhardt.

Private graveside service will be held Thursday, March 26, 2020, at 2:00 pm, at Paradise Cemetery, with Rev. Mark E. Harriss officiating. Burial will follow. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Memorials may be given to Leukemia/Lymphoma Society or St. Mark's Lutheran School or St. Mark's Lutheran Church.