Richard John Knaak, 65, of Holton, KS passed away Sunday, April 15, 2012 at his home. He was born July 27, 1946 in Herington, KS the son of John and Alice Groening Knaak.

Richard graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1964 and earned his Bachelor of Music Education from Emporia State University in 1968. He taught band in Anthony, KS and Harper, KS from 1968 to 1974 and worked as a piano technician for over 30 years. He served as choir director at the Evangel United Methodist Church for many years and was currently a member of the Denison Bible Church.

Richard was married to Barbara Newman on June 1, 1969 in Denison, KS. She survives of the home. He is also survived by his son, Sean Knaak (Mindy) of Wichita, KS; his daughter, Stephanie Knaak of Holton, KS; his sister, Grace Ann Stewart (Gary) of St. George, KS; his brother, Keith Knaak (Verdie) of Craig, MO and 3 grandchildren, Elsbeth, Colin and Lucie Knaak. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Calvin Knaak.

Richard was cremated. Inurnment will be in Denison Cemetery. A celebration of Richard's life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 18, 2012 at the Denison Bible Church in Denison, KS. The family will greet friends from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Memorials may be given to the Denison Bible Church or Jackson County Friends of Hospice c/o Mercer Funeral Home, Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.