Merceda Elizabeth Knapp

Merceda Elizabeth Knapp, 84, Wausau, the youngest of five children, born to Elizabeth and Joseph Rekowski on March 24, 1931 in Athens, died on Saturday, November 14, 2015 at Aspirus Hospice House in Wausau. After graduating from St. Anthony's Grade School and Athens High School, Merceda went to work for Steffke Freight Company. She dated Clifford Knapp for two years until their marriage at St. Michael Catholic Church on April 15, 1952 (this year they celebrated 63 years of cherished love together). Together, they raised four children and they are; Mark (Connie) Knapp, Kronenwetter, Alison Knapp, Valencia, Cal., Randal (Debbie) Knapp, Wausau and Gregg (Sherrie) Knapp, Hudson. Once the children began school, she worked for Owen Ayers for five years as secretary/receptionist. Beside the busy job of raising the children while Cliff worked long hours, she found time to get great at knitting, crocheting, and become an exceptional cook and baker. Over the years, Merceda and Cliff traveled the world, touring 34 countries in all. One of their highlights was renewing their baptismal vows while standing in the Jordan River where Christ was baptized by John the Baptist. However, of the many beautiful and fascinating places they visited, Merceda loved Hawaii the most so she made sure they went where seven times over the years. When they were not traveling abroad, much time was spent at their cabin near Lake Tomahawk that included many hours of fishing. Golfing also was a passion, as there were times they would golf 36 holes in a day, having golfed many courses over the years. After retirement, they developed a "second family" of close friends while they wintered in Hudson, Florida for 22 years. Together, they shared much laughter while swimming, golfing, lots of dancing, playing cards and enjoying dinner parties or shows. Merceda was very kind and caring and was always doing things for someone else. Some examples are; she volunteered for 34 years at Marywood Convalescent Center, was a member of the Wausau Women's Club for 25 years, a charter member of the Circle one at St. Michael's Parish, and was a choir member for 40 years. Merceda was very proud of her children and grandchildren and all of their accomplishments. Besides her beloved Cliff, Merceda is survived by their children and spouses and grandchildren, Amy Knapp, Jared (Shauna) Knapp, Chris (Neeti) Arndt, Dan (Mindy) Arndt, Adam Wachsner, Spencer Knapp and Katherine Knapp; and five great-grandchildren, Bailee Knapp, Brody and Taylor Arndt and Keeran and Riaan Arndt. Besides her parents, Merceda was preceded in death by all her siblings. The Memorial Mass and celebration of Merceda's life will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 19, 2015 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Wausau. Rev. Robert Schaller will preside. Friends may call on Wednesday from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau and again on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church. There will be a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday evening at the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com