Michael Wayne Knapp beloved Husband, Dad, Brother, Nephew, Cousin, Uncle, Fire Brother and Friend passed away unexpectedly on December 4, 2022. He was 44 years old.
Michael was born in Missoula MT on April 3, 1978 to Ted Knapp and Valorie Robinson. He grew up in and around Dillon MT but loved spending time in Argenta. He would often talk about how he and “the cousins” would steal grandma Nancy’s forks, tie them to sticks and go hunting rock chucks on Initial Rock. Michael attributed much of his character to the lessons he learned during time spent in Papa Jack’s shop or at Grandma Nancy’s kitchen table.
While his mother worked waiting tables he and his sister Michelle would spend time with Grandma Wanda. Due to his mischievous nature he was often readjusted at the hands of Wanda and “the spoon”. Though he was grown and married when she died, when asked if there was something of hers he wanted he immediately walked across her kitchen to the drawer and removed the spoon.
Michael attended school in Dillon through the eighth grade, then moved to Ashland in 1992. He was proud to be the first Knapp to finish High School graduating from Colstrip High School in 1996. He was so much smarter than he gave himself credit for and seemed to retain everything. If he didn’t know how to do something he would simply turn to YouTube, watch a few videos and just do it. Acquiring new skills was constant and effortless much to the envy of his family.
Living in Ashland required a 50 mile bus ride to and from school. During these hours of travel, though shy, he developed a close friendship with fellow Ashland kid Cedar Haley. What started out as help with homework became something more. Michael’s determination and persistence convinced her to give it a shot and they began dating in May of their Junior year and have been together ever since.
They were married on March 21, 1998 and initially made their home in Ashland. In 2000 they moved to Billings MT looking for better opportunities. With both of them working two jobs, time together was hard to find. Sunday mornings going out for breakfast and touring Open houses dreaming of the future became a treasured ritual.
While living in Billings they welcomed their four children; Shannon (2004), Michaley (2005), Jackson (2007), and Caitlyn (2008). They returned to Ashland in September 2009 where they all lived until the time of his passing.
Michael began his career journey at the age of 14 stocking coolers at the Ashland Merc. Next was cooking for Cleat Stevenson at the Just Us Inn. After high school he went to Northern Cheyenne Pine where he started laying stickers with his mom and worked his way up to Debarker Operator. With the move to Billings he took up fencing with uncle Lem by day and cooking at the Suds Hut by night. He also worked nights as a doorman for the Wild West and delivery driver for KFC and Papa John’s Pizza. When the opportunity became available he went to work for Roscoe Steel and Culvert as a Forklift operator. By the time He and Cedar decided to return to Ashland he had become a FEMA certified structural welder building everything from cattle guards to culverts and structural steel I beams for major building projects. Once back in Ashland he for a time became a stay at home Dad by day while remodeling Cedar’s grandparents home by night so his family would have a home. It was also during this time that he did extensive fire training attending a National Fire Academy sponsored training, Cody Fire School, and multiple Command Presence Leadership Trainings just to name a few.
When the house was completed and the kids began school he went to work for Jim Gilliland as a ranch hand and welding continuous fencing. This allowed him to take the kids to school in Birney, go to work then pick them up on his way home. Ranching was not his thing however, and in his mind the “only thing dumber than one cow was two”. But he did it anyway for his kids.
Michael worked many professions through the years but fighting fire was his passion. He caught the bug in 2010 and never looked back. He loved fire and seemed to have an innate sense of how it behaved and could spot a smoke column long before others knew it was there. Cedar called him her fire hound for that very reason.
Once he joined the Ashland Volunteer Fire Department with brother in law CR Stewart he immediately jumped into training. The North Tree Burn Trailer was his first big training and he felt like a kid at play. He trained almost obsessively for the next 2 years. This training proved invaluable in 2012 when the Ash Creek Complex fires ravaged Ashland and the surrounding areas. He and the rest of the AVFD boys fought with everything they had even though the fire covered over 100k acres in the first 24 hours. The 2012 fire season saw him fight 13 major fires. He continued with AVFD but also worked Severity for DNRC as part of an initial attack crew covering all of MT. His dedication and heart for helping others led him to train as an EMT serving with Ashland QRU until 2014. He additionally volunteered with Rosebud County Search and Rescue serving as its president for 2 years. He then went to work as an Engine Boss for Brad Butler Enterprises and Wildland Defense Systems. This took him all over the western United States but meant extended periods of time away from home. .
At the end of the 2020 fire season after being away for 100 days straight he decided he needed more time at home.
In May 2021 with great reservation he tried his hand “turning wrenches” and driving a Tow Truck for Gibbs Towing still volunteering with AVFD. The Richard Springs fire in August 2021 was his last big fire.
Besides fighting fire Michael enjoyed collecting shot glasses, demolition derbies, fishing at Kelly Lake above Argenta, and Hunting with his Dad, sisters and kids. Just sitting around the kitchen table talking or playing Music Trivia having the family guess the song title and artist are some of our fondest memories.
He was always ready to lend a hand. Helping others was to him simply the right thing to do. He wanted nothing in return saying he was paid in W & F (warm and fuzzy).
Michael had an amazing sense of humor, an infectious smile and the best laugh. He never ceased to have us all laughing at his antics and was often told he should have been a comedian with his impressions, funny voices and facial expressions. When truly happy he had a childlike excitement that was a joy to behold. Shooting his first bull elk being one such example. You couldn’t wipe the smile from his face that day.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents Ted and Valorie; grandparents, Jack and Nancy Knapp, Hilden and Wanda Mower, and Richard and Alice Robinson. Uncle Jess Knapp; aunt Judy Flores; brother-in-law CR Stewart; and father-in-law Bruce Haley.
He leaves behind his wife of 24 years, Cedar; children who were his strongest source of pride: Shannon, Michaely, Jackson,and Caitlyn; sisters Michelle, and Robin; stepfather Jeff Robinson; uncles Tony (Terri) Knapp, Jack “Inky” Knapp; aunt Garnet Mann; special cousins, John (Vonnie) Knapp, Bob Connors, and Alecia (Matt) Morgan; numerous niece and nephew, cousins, fire brothers, family and friends far too many to mention. If we forgot anyone please accept our sincerest apologies.
The family would like to thank the staff of IHS ER, The Northern Cheyenne Ambulance Crew, Ashland Quick Response Unit, Rosebud County Deputies and Friends Brenden Stevenson and Shelby Stevenson, the Miller Family, Jordan Bloxham, and Garrick Good Hart for their valiant efforts to save him. Words are inadequate to express the depth of our gratitude to you all.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
2:00 PM
Sunday December 18, 2022
Ashland Public School
Ashland, Montana 59003
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
2:00 PM
Sunday December 18, 2022
Ashland Public School
Ashland, Montana 59003
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Rick Later says
With SINCERE SYMPATHY R.I.P.
Rick & Cooky Later
Bert and Helen Woods says
Cedar and family,
I can’t believe that this has happened. Much to young. Our prayers are with you and the kids. May your pain be lessened and your memories be strengthened. Love to you all.
Debbie Young says
I have known Mike for 33 years and thought the world of him. My love and prayers are with Cedar and the kids and Michelle. RIP Mike and have a great journey to heaven.
Sheila Weaver says
There are no words. Our hearts are with your family and we wish you love, healing, and beautiful memories.
Sheila and Jim (Savannah’s parents)
Taisha Cornelius says
Cedar and family,
I can’t not believe you are having to go through this tragedy. All my prayers and love are with you and the kids! Mike will be missed everyday! I am so sorry.
Terrie McNac says
Dear Cedar & family. I am so sorry for your loss. All of you are in my prayers.
Kelly Stevenson-Sargent says
Cedar and Family- My thoughts and prayers are with you. I got to visit with Mike on my last visit to Ashland while he fixed my tire. Of course when everything was said and done he was like no charge, I paid him anyway and told him dont ever be afraid to put a value on your time, but then that was Mike wasnt it! Ever since Ive known him he was always volunteering and helping others. Mike was one of the good ones! You all remain in my prayers.
Tim and Lori Blaede says
Cedar and family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. There is no words that can take away the pain at this time. Just know that we are thinking of you.
Harry and Diana Goodwin says
Cedar and kids, our prayers are with you. Hope you can find comfort in the memories you made.
Adam Zimmer says
A great guy gone to soon. Thanks for the help this summer. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Carol Matthews says
Cedar and family,
So sorry for your loss. He was way to young.
Praying you can have peace.
Alberta Lois Nightwalker says
OH CEDAR I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR. HUGS PRAYERS FOR YOU AND CHILDREN. GOD BLESS.
Patricia Houseman says
Cedar, you and your family are in my prayers. Mike was a wonderful person and he will be missed.
Jeffrey Haley says
Cedar and family. I hate this for you. So sorry for your loss.
Fran Oswald says
Sincerely sorry for your loss, Cedar.
Fran Oswald says
Sincerely sorry for your loss, Cedar, and family.
Helen Ballan says
Cedar and family. I am so very sorry for your loss. Michael was a wonderful man that will be missed by so many. The 5 of you were the most important people in his life. My thoughts and prayers are with you
Mimi Nickel says
I am sincerely sorry for your loss. My condolences & prayers for strength & comfort for you, children & family. Love Mimi
Andrita Harris says
Cedal & Family, Deepest sympathy and condolences for your loss. PRAYERS Michael will be missed.
Carla & Jay Johnson says
Cedar and family, we are so very sorry to hear this. Mike was a good man and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. If there is anything we can do, please let us know. Strength be with you in this time of sorrow! But remember, Mike will be watching over all of you until you all meet again! God Bless!
SandySpag says
My dear Sister and family: Your loss is still shock. Just a few weeks ago he was here in our home – helping as usual and we were so grateful. And of course he refused payment. Always had that big smile on his face. We love you all and know he leaves a big void – temporarily. Our Creator is so loving – He gave you this love and you still lookto the future. We love you all! Zane, Sandy and Lia
Deb McClaren says
Cedar and family, I’m so sorry about losing Mike. Just know I’m thinking of you all at this time of great sorrow.
Gina Giles says
Cedar and family, Little did we know when we saw you Saturday that your world would turn upside down the next day. We know death is the enemy (1 Corinthians 15:26), but until it is banished forever, we have to trust in Jehovah to help us through such times. Stay wrapped in the warm love and hugs from your spiritual family, Gina Giles and Kathie Bach
Larry and Mickey Rose says
Dear Cedar and kids, I always liked Mike and I am still having trouble getting my head wrapped around the news. Our faith in Jehovah’s promise of a resurrection is a guarantee we can count on. Our love and hugs go out to all of you Know we are thinking of you with love. the Roses
Deborah Burwell says
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of this beautiful young man. May God Bless you and see you through the loss of your son.
Deborah Burwell
Justin Selway says
My deepest condolences to your family and loved ones. Michael was a classmate and friend of mine in elementary school in Dillon. He was full of energy and laughter and always doing impressions. He will be missed. We are thinking of you all at this time of sorrow.
Bob White says
Rest in Peace Mike, You left us way to soon….
Shawn Dye says
Like Justin Selway said, “Mike was always doing impressions”. My brother Aaron and I were very close friends with Mike growing up until he moved to Ashland. If you were a kid in the 80’s and a fan of the Police Academy movies you were always trying to mimic one or two very funny comedians. They were Bobcat Goldthwait (Zed) and Michael Winslow (Motormouth Jones). Mike got to be pretty good at doing Zed impressions and would crack us up. I heard Justin Selway do it one time too and he was also good! When it came to music, Mike and other kids in the neighborhood were always listening to tunes. I can still remember Mike’s old GE boombox. We listened to that for hours. We had many good times playing video games, swimming at the Paradise Inn swimming pool, riding bikes, playing baseball, hot box, basketball, football sledding, letting off fireworks and whatever else I’m forgetting right now. My deepest condolences to all of his family. I’m sorry for your loss. I miss you buddy!!!
Cindy Stanton says
Michelle & family, I am truly sorry for your loss. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Nikki Kenworthy says
Go rest, brother…We will take it from here. You will be so missed.
Mimi Nickel says
Cedar & family…words cannot express this loss. Praying for comfort & peace
Gail Ivestee says
Many condolences to Cedar and all family members. Sorry to here of your loss. My prayers go out to you. . I remember watching you to grow up together. There wasn’t many times you were apart. The memories and a life time together will be with you forever.
Joyce Hain says
3/21/23 o Dearest girl, Cedar I only learned about your devastating loss today
. I read the beautiful tribute and watched his memorial. You 
dears were really together as one flesh. May Jehovah continue carrying you all: soothing and comforting you and your dear daughters and son on his everlasting arms. Deuteronomy. Cedar dearest the best recommendation I can give you is to befriend an older widow who’s endured the trail you are traveling. She will understand and be a good listener when you feel like talking and be a comfortable friend when you just need someone to have peace and quiet with.
]
And honey, [just between us girls—contrary to what they tell us widows: it just ain’t true! that the more you cry; the less you pee
Tanina says
Cedar and family….
Man I’m so sorry for ur loss…Michael and I started working together back when I was pregnant with my 1st son in 1997, but I’ve known Michael for even longer than that…we became Great friends in the end…we took our VAFD test together and I kicked his butt on the time limit we were allowed to get dressed out…Michael meant alot to my whole family… he has been apart and around my family for almost 35 yrs….I’m 46 now….that’s a very Long time…Travor has always considered Michael to be one of his best friends but Travor is really struggling with the news….if u or any of ur kids need anything Cedar…plz know that my family will always be here for you…we love u and our praying for u and ur kids…
Garth Sleight says
Last night, December 5, 2023, Michaley gave an informative and moving speech about the perils of being a firefighter, especially a wildlands firefighter. I recorded the speech for Michaley’s mom. At the end of the speech, I and then the class saluted Michael. It was then that Michaley emotionally told the class that her dad had died a year ago. I was heartbroken to hear that and said I/we had not made things worse for her. In the end, we determined that our loving tribute to Michael was a posthumous salute. I’m so sorry to see a man leave this life all too soon. My heartfelt condolences go to the entire Knapp family. Michaley is a wonderful reflection of her parents.