John Knapik, Sr., 92, of Commodore, died, Saturday, February 28, 2015 at the Indiana Regional Medical Center. Born July 23, 1922 in Starford, he was a son of the late Alex Knapik and Eleanora (Zambera) Knapik. He was widowed from his wife of 42 years, Sophia (Hritz) Knapik on July 29, 1991.

John was a career coal miner, working for the Barnes and Tucker Coal Company. He was also a member of the United Mine Worker’s Association, Local 1872. He was a World War II veteran, having served in the U.S. Army. He received the following citations: American Theater Ribbon; Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with one Bronze Star; Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.

John was known by his neighbors to have one of the nicest vegetable gardens in Commodore. His secret was talking to his plants. He also took pride in caring for his lawn and kept it in pristine condition. He enjoyed going four wheeling with his friends, especially during the evening hours. He was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan, following the Steelers, Penguins and especially the Pirates. He also had a special love for his two Bichon Frise dogs, Buffy and Shirley.

He was a former usher and member of the Holy Name Society at the former St. Elizabeth Church, Starford. In addition to his affiliation with the UMWA, John was a member of the Indiana VFW Post 1989 and a Lifetime Member of the Glen Campbell American Legion, Post 435.

He is survived by his children: George Andrew Knapik, Nanty Glo; Andrea M. Nichol, Indiana; Cynthia D. Skalican & husband, Mark, Commodore and daughter-in-law, Susan Knapik, Commodore. His surviving grandsons are: John J. Knapik & wife, Joy, Indiana; Joshua A. Knapik, Commodore; and great grandson, Antonio J. Knapik, Indiana. John’s surviving siblings are: Michael Knapik, Willowick, OH; and sister-in-laws, Charlotte Knapik, Commodore and Margie Knapik, Montville, OH.

In addition to his wife and parents, John was preceded in death by his son, John G. Knapik in 2014. His deceased siblings are: Andrew, Joseph, Alex, Stanley, Frank and Edward Knapik; Ann Hull; Pauline McClure and Mary Wanchisn.

Friends will be received Tuesday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at the Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home of Clymer. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday morning at 10 AM at the Church of the Resurrection, Clymer. Rev. Father Timothy Kruthaupt, celebrant. Interment will be in the Church of the Resurrection Cemetery, Starford.

In lieu of flowers the Knapik Family is asking for memorial donations to be made to the Alzheimers Association by visiting alz.org or calling, 1.800.272.3900

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