Keith Lynn Knaak was born on Dec. 7th 1949 in Herington Kansas to parents John F. Knaak and Alice M. Groening. He graduated from Hillsborough High School in 1967. After high school, Keith joined the US Navy and served for 10 years and left as a Machinist Mate First Class.
On January 7, 1978 he married LaVerda (Verdie) Backhus in Shadybrook Kansas at Emmanuel Lutheran Church. Throughout their early years together Keith worked several jobs until he was called to serve the Lord in 1979 and began his studies to become a minister. He earned his Bachelor’s of Science in Divinity from Open Bible College. He then spent his life serving his Savior in Christ by witnessing to many he met and changing many lives.
Keith passed away on Monday November 28, 2022 at Mosaic hospital in St. Joseph Missouri at the age of 72.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Calvin Knaak and Richard Knaak.
He is survived by his wife, LaVerda (Verdie),his sister Grace Ann Stewart (Gary) his daughter Nancy Greenawalt, son Quint Rathbone (Tabitha), step-children Ginger Brousseau, Robert Knaak, Gary Rathbone (Sharon), Mark Rathbone (Kerrie), Mindi Meyer, (Aleks), 5 grandchildren, Nicole, Erin, Kristen, Elaina (Lainey), Gavin, 1 great grandchild, Hayden, and nieces and nephews.
Keith loved watching sports, especially K-State Football, and KU Basketball, Nascar, and Golfing. He loved helping his community and took great pride in taking care of their lawns. He also had a great sense of humor and often loved joking with his family and friends.
Keith was loved by all.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the family in the name of LaVerda Knaak.
Services: Saturday, December 3, 2022, 2:00 pm, Chamberlain Funeral Home, Mound City, Mo. Family will greet friends beginning at noon. Private family inurnment at Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, Kansas.
