KNAPTON, Robert Craig
Posted Sep 24, 2024 | 10:23 AM
With profound sadness, we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Craig, beloved husband, Dad and Papa in August at our cabin in the Okanagan.
Born in 1952 in Vancouver, he is survived by Becky, his loving wife of 50+ years and high school sweetheart; son Dan; daughter Janessa Simpson (Phil); grandchildren Noah, Caleb, Grayson, Easton & Quinn; brothers John, Ken (Angie), sister Sue Kidd (Cam); sisters-in-law Marjy & Maxine Knapton, Nancy Rielly (Keith) and families, and many friends.
Craig was first and foremost a family man who loved people and who lived his life generously and to the fullest. He was happiest when spending time with his kids and grandkids, hosting big family dinners, and attending games, concerts and important activities, always their #1 fan.
Passionate about many things and a man of action, he co-founded the charity Athletics For Kids (a4k), was president and coach of North Van Girl’s Softball, an avid and accomplished long distance runner who placed 3rd in the 1982 Vancouver International Marathon, a great cook, loved golfing and more recently pickleball, vacationing in Maui, and spending summers with family and friends at the cabin.
After graduating from Sentinel Secondary School, then from UBC with a Bachelor of Commerce, Craig worked at Scott Paper, then Balfour Guthrie, eventually establishing his own company, working in the forest products industry until his last day.
During his respected career, he travelled the world and made many life-long friends. Equally dedicated to helping others through volunteerism, he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal in 2012 for his community service.
Craig, you are forever loved and will be sorely missed by all who were blessed to have known you.
Thanks for all the wonderful memories! Until we are together again….
There will be a Celebration of Craig’s Life on November 2, 2024 at 2:00pm at St. David’s United Church, West Vancouver. In lieu of flowers, donations to Athletics For Kids (a4k) or a charity of your choice gratefully accepted.
*PLEASE DISREGARD ANY ONLINE SITE OTHER THAN a4k (Athletics for Kids) ASKING FOR DONATIONS ON BEHALF OF THE FAMILY. ANY OTHER SITES WOULD NOT BE AT THE FAMILY’S REQUEST*
Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Pleasant Valley Funeral Home,
Phone: 250-542-4333
Condolences may be offered at www.pleasantvalleyfh.com