Obituary: David Winthrop Knapp, 98, formerly of Guilford

Obituary courtesy of Guilford Funeral Home:

David Winthrop Knapp, recently of North Haven and previously longtime resident of Guilford, passed away on July 29, 2023. Predeceased by his father Donald R. Knapp and his mother Margaret A. Knapp, David is survived by his daughter, Karen Knapp Parrish, his two step-daughters, Marilyn and Katherine, his sister, Patricia Knapp Smith, and her children: Martin, Andrew, Jennifer, and Carey. Additionally, David leaves behind four grandchildren and four great-grandsons. All are eternally grateful for the care provided him in his last years by his dedicated caregivers, Betty and Shaynna, and boating partner, Norb.

He was born September 2, 1926 in NYC, interrupting his parents’ train ride from New Jersey to Cambridge MA where his father began graduate studies in mechanical engineering at Harvard. David grew up in Stelton (now Edison) NJ, where he developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors, became an Eagle Scout, and embraced activities like horseback riding, skiing, swimming, and sailing on Sunset Lake. He received a BA degree in US History from Wesleyan University and a teaching certificate from Rutgers University.

As a volunteer with a local scout troop, he learned that there were paid scouting positions available and he became a scout executive, coordinating programs and volunteers for 10 years. It was during this time that he married, welcomed two step-daughters, and had a child of his own. Subsequently, David ventured into textbook sales and the family moved to Setauket, NY, and later to Madison, CT. Living so close to the water, he was able to continue and grow his love of sailing.

After 27 years of marriage, he divorced and settled in Guilford, CT. He became immersed in the Guilford community, serving on multiple committees at First Congregational Church and around town, supporting the Guilford High School music program and local political candidates, attending events on the green and at the community center. He became the champion of many causes such as: Save Deer Lake, Planned Parenthood, assistance for immigrating refugees, and LGBTQ rights. He helped found a local PFlag chapter, assisted First Church in becoming Open and Affirming and worked tirelessly advocating for BSA to allow gay scouts be part of the programs he cherished. David spoke at scores of high schools with Stonewall Speakers, positively affecting the lives of many young people.

His parents instilled in him a passion for education, the constant pursuit of knowledge, and giving to others less fortunate. He was always looking for opportunities to expand his horizons and generously supported many charities with funds and with actions. He held his beliefs firmly and loved a good argument, enjoying a bit of a reputation as a spirited rabble-rouser.

A memorial service will be held Monday, August 14th 10:00 am at the First Congregational Church, 122 Broad St., Guilford. Burial will be held privately at later date. In honor of his memory, contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society or American Heart Association or a charity of your choice.