Gregory Todd Knippel's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Gregory Todd Knippel
It is with profound sadness that we share the news of Gregory Todd Knippel's sudden passing from cancer on April 8, 2024, in Palm Coast, Florida. His memory will forever be cherished by his mother Nadia, father John, three beloved daughters Ashley, Manton, and Jennifer, and his partner Valerie. Greg was a loving father, son, and partner and touched the lives of countless individuals throughout his beautiful life.
Greg was born June 18, 1967 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where he made some of his fondest childhood memories on the family farm with his Dido and Baba. From his earliest years, he displayed a passion for sports, excelling in hockey, baseball, golf, skiing, and football. Yet, it was his love for music that truly captured his heart, playing various instruments, notably the guitar and later the piano. His life was full of adventure and he began exploring the world at a young age: he visited Europe, Russia, South Africa and numerous other destinations.
During his college years at the University of Minnesota, Greg formed lifelong friendships and became a proud member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. While there, he also trained extensively and earned his black belt in Chung Moo Quan. An entrepreneur at heart, he established successful ventures in property management, parking, and the trucking industry.
After college, he moved to LA and entered the business world. He then moved to Calgary, Alberta where he worked with his father and raised his 3 girls with his first wife Stacy. During these years he also found the time to attend and graduate from Harvard Business School. He was an autodidact with a love of learning and sharing his knowledge with others.
Greg's life took a new direction when he met his partner Valerie and moved to Florida. They embarked on a journey together, establishing a business in the trucking industry. Their adventures across the United States, accompanied by their beloved canine companions, Bear and Vixy, were a testament to their love and shared aspirations.
With his outgoing and affable nature, Greg made many friends throughout his life. A man of many talents and accomplishments, he brightened the lives of everyone he knew with his sharp wit and humor, even if that was sometimes in the form of a debate. His daughters loved listening to stories of shared memories with his friends and family, as he was a vivacious storyteller. As an adult, he created many things throughout his lifetime, no doubt leaving the world more beautiful through his music, art and cooking.
During this difficult time, we are immensely grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received. While there will not be a formal service, Greg’s wishes were to be cremated. His daughters will spread his ashes in the Rocky Mountains of Canada where he loved to hunt, fish, and ski.
In closing, let us remember Gregory Todd Knippel not only for the remarkable achievements he attained and the cherished memories he created, but also for the profound legacy he leaves behind. His life serves as a poignant reminder to embrace each moment with passion, to pursue our dreams with unwavering determination, and to cherish the bonds of love and friendship that enrich our journey. May Greg's spirit inspire us all to live life to the fullest, to embrace adventure, and to spread kindness wherever we go. Though he may have departed from this world, his legacy of living with purpose and zest for life will forever resonate in our hearts. Let us honor his memory by continuing to embrace the beauty and joy that life has to offer.
Rest in peace, dear Greg. You will be profoundly missed and eternally remembered. As Greg would say, cheers!
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