Obituary of Barbara J. Knupp

Barbara J. Knupp, 76, of Vernon, NJ passed away Thursday, February 23, 2023, at Newton Medical Center, NJ due to an acute infection in her leg.

Barb was born on July 7, 1946, in State College, she was the daughter of the late William Oscar and late Margaret S. (Coral) Houtz. She grew up on a large farm in the western section of State College with her three brothers, whom she is predeceased in death by, William Kenneth Houtz, Harold L. Houtz, and Raymond E. Houtz. She would share countless stories of growing up on the farm, and with the example of her brothers, grew up to become a hard-working woman.

After graduating from State College High School in 1964, Barbara enrolled in the Centre Community Hospital-School of Nursing, graduating in 1966 as an LPN. During her career, she worked at Centre Community Hospital where she cared for many patients and new mothers in the maternity ward.

On September 13, 1967 she married Harry Knupp, who survives. They were introduced two years prior by Harry's sister Peg Stone, deceased, who worked at the hospital with Barb. Harry and Barb shared their first dance at the hospital Christmas party December 1965, dancing to the song "Unchained Melody", by Elvis Presley. They celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary, dancing to the same song, aboard a Viking Cruise down the Rhein with their son Dearrick and his husband Brant. Travel was a big part of Harry and Barb's time together.

Barb gave birth to two adorable, happy and incredibly active sons, Dale Edward and Dearrick Jay. This allowed Barb to accomplish what she wanted in life - to love, be loved, and to have a family of her own. Family was important to her. She and Harry dreamed of all the places they would travel and the adventures they'd experience as a family. Camping and fishing were huge passions of both Barb and Harry and they shared this love through the numerous outings they would take their sons. Unfortunately, Dale Edward was taken too soon on February 26th, 1988.

Barb had an incredible love for Dearrick, whom she is survived by, and wanted him to be loved by everyone. She was passionate about teaching her son to follow his path and chase his dreams. Barb excelled at propping up her family and friends and supporting them through the many passions and difficulties of their lives. Whether that was a childhood friend, a neighbor, or her niece and nephews, she made it her mission to enrich and improve the lives of others.

She is survived by her son Dearrick's husband, Brant Shih; her sisters-in-law, Helen Houtz and Jo Anne Knupp.

In October 2022, Barbara became a business owner. She purchased and operated the Candy Apple Shoppe in Warwick, NJ. She was a hard worker and loved spending time in her newly purchased chocolate shop, whether putting together boxes or visiting with the multitude of customers. Barb was working the day that she was taken to the hospital via ambulance. She passed just one week later. She will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be held from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Thursday, March 2, 2023 at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College.

Funeral service will be 10:30 am, Friday, March 3, 2023 at Koch Funeral Home with Pastor Theresa Heiser officiating.

Burial will be in Pine Hall Cemetery following the service.

Online condolences may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.