S. Paul Knopp of Hermiston passed away in Hermiston on Feb. 4, 2026 at the age of 83.
He was born on Aug. 6, 1942 in Wilbur, Wash. to Raymond and Vera Burkepile Knopp.
Paul moved to Yoncalla as a child with his family where he lived, attended school and graduated from high school. After high school, Paul served as an aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Air Force for almost five years. He was stationed in Moses Lake, Wash. and was active during the Vietnam War.
Paul lived in several communities throughout the Pacific Northwest. He worked in sawmills, for a hardware store, as a water heater technician and as a guard at the Umatilla Army Depot. He had lived in Eastern Oregon for many years.
Paul was a talented singer, had served as a song leader in several churches beside his wife Carol, who played piano, had a strong faith in the Lord, and enjoyed hosting Bible studies in his home. He enjoyed cutting firewood, hunting, fishing and camping and was a crafty woodworker.
He married Carol Sams in Seattle, Wash. on Nov. 23, 1982.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Carol; sons, Chuck Knopp and Carl Knopp; stepchildren, Josie Rosenbury, Stephanie Moreya, Sandi Vutsinas and Grant Sams; sister, Carol Eastside; sister, Shirley Swalwell; brother, John Knopp; brother, Ted Knopp; eight grandchildren and many great-grandchildren; and many extended family members.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 in the Burns Mortuary Chapel, 685 W. Hermiston Ave.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
