Michael Charles Knapik's Obituary
Decatur-Michael Charles Knapik, 72, of Bonaire, Georgia passed away Tuesday, August 25, 2015 in his home.
Mike was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut on February 16, 1943. He was the son of Michael Peter Knapik and Mildred Pauline (Bethin) Knapik Halzack. His father passed away while serving his country during World War II. Mike was raised by his mother and stepfather Nicholas Halzack.
Mike proudly served his country in the Navy for six years from September 11, 1962 until September 9, 1966 and on reserve until September 10, 1968. He attended the University of Miami and the Divers Training Academy in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
On March 15, 1968 he was married to Margot Hildegard Lederer in Shelton, Connecticut. They later settled in Marrero, Louisiana where they raised their family. When they moved on to Port Sulphur, Louisiana, they owned and operated the prominent Hi Ridge Marina. Mike and Margot retired and moved to Bonaire, Georgia in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina.
He is survived by one daughter Robin Lynn (Knapik) Zemaitis of Bonaire, Georgia, one son Roderic “Ricky” Charles Knapik and wife Tracey of Decatur, Illinois, seven grandchildren Joshua Walter, Rebekah Lynn, Rachell Lynn, and Railynn Joy Zemaitis, Alyson Rose, Ashlee Rose, and Cameron Robert Knapik, sister Marilyn (Knapik) Battey of Tulsa, Oklahoma, three brothers Nicholas Halzack and wife Beth of Central Valley, New York, Gregory and Wife Mary Halzack of Suffield, Connecticut, and Thomas Halzack and wife Terry of Stratford, Connecticut.
He was preceded in death by his parents and wife.
Mike was a man who had a very loving heart, and a great sense of responsibility. He spent many years nursing his wife through an illness which devastated their lives. Mike kept her by his side and took care of her every need. For this alone he deserves great respect and recognition. Mike was a world traveler, and always made time to visit family spread out across the country. He was an expert swimmer and diver, and loved to fish. Mike enjoyed his hobbies of coin collecting and buying and selling antiques. Mike was very proud of his daughter and son, and his grandchildren were especially held close to his heart. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him.
Private family services will be held. Memorials may be made to Heart of Georgia Hospice, 103 Westridge Dr. Warner Robins, Georgia, 31088. Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL is assisting the family. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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