Christopher Knips

Loving Husband, Dad,


Son and Brother


Age 59, of St. Paul, died October 3 at home. Survived by wife, Lenore Franzen; son, Andrew Knips; stepdaughter, Anna Johns; mother, Suzanne Knips; father, Gerry Knips (Bev); sisters, Debbie Knips and Katie Knips Ladas (Pete) and brother, David Knips (Laura). Born in Colorado Springs in 1950, Chris moved to the Twin Cities, where he went to school at Edina High School and graduated from Hamline University with a major in economics. He began his professional career with Commercial State Bank. Chris then served as financial administrator for a number of nonprofit agencies, including Upward Bound, the Minnesota Indian Women's Resource Center, Guild, Inc., Council on Crime and Justice and Common Hope. Chris was an active member and past president of the Nonprofit Financial Group and valued that network. Embracing the missions of each organization, he was "an accountant with heart," bringing integrity and passion to his work. Chris was a much-loved member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, where he and Lenore were married in 1985. He served faithfully on the council, investment committees, as an usher, van driver, and as president of the men's group. He was also active in the men's golf league and Bible studies, and took several mission trips to Guatemala. Best known for his sense of humor, devotion to his family, and love for the outdoors, Chris pursued many interests, including golfing, fishing, and photography. Chris will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him. Service Thursday, October 7, 11:00 A.M. at GLORIA DEI LUTHERAN CHURCH, 700 South Snelling Avenue. Visitation Wednesday, 4:00-6:00 P.M. and also one hour prior to the service at ALL AT THE CHURCH. Memorials preferred to Common Hope of St. Paul (www.commonhope.org) and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.