Bruce J. Knaack

Bruce James Knaack, age 68, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, February 17, 2014 with his family and friends at his side. He fought a valiant battle against a devastating disease, ALS, diagnosed in March of 2013. Bruce was born to the late Fred and Hilda Knaack on May 15, 1945 in Appleton. He graduated from Appleton High School. He served in the US Army and US Army Reserves with his good friend, Harry “Porky” Hameister. On August 22, 1970 he married the love of his life, Susan Laux in Appleton. Bruce worked at Lawrence University for 41 years as the manager of the Central Services department.

Bruce loved photography as well as maintaining his aquarium. He was also very proud of his yard and flowers that he meticulously maintained for over 30 years. Bruce enjoyed the outdoors, especially his fishing trips up north with Dick and Bob. While up north, he also liked ATV riding and spending time at the Walleye Lodge and Schuh's. Bruce and Sue looked forward to traveling together and the two liked planning trips to many National and State parks around the country. The two always reserved Thursday nights as their date night with friends at Dick and Joan's. Bruce was an avid Packer fan and faithfully attended games with Turk for over 30 years. He was also a Brewer fan and looked forward to watching many ball games on TV.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Susan Knaack; daughters: Dawn Knaack, Dana Knaack and her good friend Buck Rosenberg; granddaughter: Britney Knaack; sister: Beverly (Marvin) Babler; brothers-in-law: Dick (Kim) Laux, Jim Laux, Larry Turkow and Jim Derks; along with many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents-in-law: Richard and Sylvia Laux; sisters-in-law; Joyce Turkow and Marlene Derks.

A funeral service for Bruce will take place at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 21, 2014 at the WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME TRI COUNTY CHAPEL (1592 Oneida St., Menasha). Visitation will take place from 9:00 AM until the time of service. Online condolences may be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established in Bruce's name.

The family would like to extend a thank you to Katie O. from the Affinity Visiting Nurses Association as well as the V.A. of both Appleton and Milwaukee for the wonderful care they gave to Bruce over the past year. Also, a special thank you to all of Bruce's friends who never left his side and continued to support him through the good times and difficult times.

Bruce, you are my soul mate and I will cherish the memories we made until we are together again.