Frank Knorpp

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jacob ‘Frank’ Knorpp, age 90, of Joplin, Missouri, entered heaven’s gates on Saturday, September 28, 2024 following an extended illness. Frank was born August 12, 1934 in Joplin to the late Kenneth and Joelda Marie (Doughty) Knorpp.

Frank was a 1952 graduate of Duenweg High School. After graduation, Frank enlisted into the United States Air Force during the Korean War, serving two different stints. Returning home, Frank worked as a truck driver before eventually owning Knorpp Insurance Agency.

Frank’s passion for serving the Lord was known by all who knew him. He was a founding member of Fidelity Church and later became a long-time member of the Assemblies of God. He started “Helping Hands Mission Outreach” where for 17 years, Frank made over 150 trips into Mexico to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. Frank had his private pilot license and started the local chapter of ‘Pilots of Christ’ club. He had a passion for teaching God’s Word and taught many years with the Teen Challenge Program.

On November 21, 1979, Frank married Marilyn ‘Muff’ Cox Parker in Miami, Oklahoma, she is survived of the home in Joplin. Additionally a son, Jacob Knorpp (Renee) of Joplin; daughters, Linda Steele of Diamond, Pamela Finley (David) of Diamond, Barbara Hirshey (Denis) of Diamond, Angela Knorpp of Carthage and Susan Hill (Troy) of Joplin; stepdaughters, Stormi Beckham (Wes) of Joplin, Marty Caruthers (Randy) of Branson and Holly Hoyer (Chris) of Joplin; sisters, Joelda Owens of Buena Park, California and Leyla Whitson (Bill) of Diamond; mother of his children, Frances Finley of Diamond; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a host of extended family and friends.

Funeral arrangements are planned for Friday, October 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. with Chris Hoyer officiating the service. Burial will follow at Fidelity Cemetery south of Carthage. Family will receive friends on Thursday, October 3rd from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary in Joplin. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Watered Gardens in care of the mortuary.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.