Rita Knapp

KNAPP, Rita, 89, Maine, October 2, 2013. Extended bio and details at: www.alternativesoundpdx.com/ritaknapp.html.

Rita Knapp

    MAINE – Rita E. Knapp,   May 11, 1924 – October 2, 2013. Rita left us after a remarkable 89-year life that impacted and influenced countless people. She embraced everyone’s story, and nourished all with great food and love, always served with her signature care and style.
    Born on a dairy farm near Norridgewock, ME, to Mabel Perreault and Earl Rowe, Rita was the first in her family to go to college. After graduation from Farmington State Teacher’s College in Home Economics, Rita Rowe married Rev. Charles M. Knapp on June 30, 1946.
    Chuck’s first parish and Rita’s family began in northern Maine potato country with daughter, Kristan (1948). Sons, Timothy (1950) and Andrew (1954) arrived in Dover-Foxcroft. Jonathan (1957) was born after Chuck’s career brought the family to Almira, eastern Washington.
    Rita’s professional life began with their joint appointment as directors of Menucha (1965-78), a church facility overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. Together they transformed Menucha into an ecumenical conference center, where guests and employees alike find refuge and growth. Rita took charge of every aspect of guest hospitality, training and mentoring young staff in the process.
    Two of their collaborations continue: Creative Arts Community, an art retreat held at Menucha each summer; and Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, the Portland chapter they co-founded. Rita’s historic testimony at the 1973 State Legislature, supporting Oregon’s first gay rights bill, was reported nationwide.
    The 1980s found Rita working in Hospice training for oncology nurses and lobbying for AARP in the State legislature. In 1991, she became Wedding/Event Coordinator at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, a position she enjoyed for 18 years.
    Rita is survived by siblings: Erwin, H. Edward, Lorraine Jean; children: Kristan, Timothy, Andrew, Jonathan; grandchildren: Charlene, Daniel; great-grandchildren: Olivia, Elliot, Zoey; and friends and extended family beyond count. Her beloved Chuck preceded her in death on April 19, 2013. Rita and Charles Knapp last visited Dover-Foxcroft in November 2005.
    A joyful celebration of Rita’s life was held on Saturday, Nov. 16, at First Congregational Church in Portland, Oregon. Extended bio and details at: www.alternativesoundpdx.com/ritaknapp.html.