Frank "Bud" Knaak, 95, of Rochelle, passed away peacefully with his family by his side August 9, 2013 at Rochelle Rehab and Healthcare Center. Bud was born July 30, 1918 to Frank & Emma Knaak on the family farm near Bartlett, Illinois. He married Agatha Pleasant on June 22, 1940 in Elgin, Il. Frank worked for Sears and Roebuck Co for 30 years, retiring in 1976. He and Agatha raised their children and called the town of Elgin their home until they moved to Rochelle in 1991. He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Rochelle. Frank will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His family meant everything to him and as the grandchildren were born and then great-grandchildren came, nothing brought "Gramps" greater joy then spending time with them. Frank enjoyed antique cars and talking about his early years on the family farm. He will be greatly missed by his family!
Frank was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Emma Knaak, his sister, Mabel Range and twin great-grandsons, Mark and Alexander O'Brien.
He is survived by his loving wife, Agatha; his sons, James(Rebeca) Knaak of Scottsdale AZ; Jerry(Judy) Knaak of Rochelle; his daughter, Peggy(Chuck)Wagner of Rochelle; his grandchildren, Debbie(Vince)O'Brien, Dede(Tim)Ponto, Wendy(Erik) Gilbert, Ben Knaak, Chris(Jennifer)Knaak, Andy Knaak, Dan(Jenny)Knaak,Terri Lazo; his great-grandchildren, Kiley and Kelsey O'Brien, Mallory, Lauren and Taylor Ponto, Alex Gilbert, Tyler, Hunter and Charlie Knaak, Julian and Charlotte Lazo.
The family would like to thank the staff at Rochelle Rehab and Healthcare Center and Rochelle Community Hospital for their loving care and compassion. A special thank you to Judy Williams for all her love, prayers and comfort during this difficult time. The family requests memorials to Serenity Hospice and Home. A private family service has been held with Judy Williams officiating. Burial was at Lawnridge Cemetery.