Marte M. Knopick

Marte Knopick, of Fountain City, WI, passed away on her 75th birthday, January 26, 2024, at Gundersen Health System Hospital in La Crosse, WI.

Born in Winona, MN, Marte Paape graduated from Winona Senior High School. She later settled in Bluff Siding, WI, where she shared over 40 cherished years with her devoted husband, Perry. Their home in Chicken Valley was the backdrop for countless joyful memories, including their wedding, lively parties, penny poker nights with the Kammerer’s, festive holiday board games, hickory nut and berry picking excursions, and her beloved 4th of July celebrations.

Marte's life took a heartbreaking turn when her daughter, Shannon, battled breast cancer. Throughout that difficult period and beyond, Marte dedicated herself to caring for Shannon, taking her to appointments, and providing unwavering support until Shan's passing in 2017. Marte's kindness and resilience held her family together during their darkest hours.

A devoted grandmother, Marte delighted in every moment spent with her grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to mark a special occasion with a treat or heartfelt celebration. Her bond with her niece, Katie Nakagaki, brought Marte immense joy, and they shared cherished memories. During her car rides, whether she was visiting her children or enjoying outings to the casinos with Perry, Marte delighted in reliving the countless good times she shared with others. Marte's optimism and boundless kindness illuminated the lives of all who knew her.

Marte is survived by her husband, Perry Knopick; her son, Peter Knopick of Winona, MN; her daughters Angel (Dusty) Strasburg of Rochester, MN, and Cris Devine (James Banks) of California; her son-in-law, Bill Pringle of Winona, MN; her grandchildren, Rylee Strasburg, Oliver Pringle, and Kendra (Noah) Buxengard; and numerous cherished friends and extended family. She is preceded in death by her parents, Margaret and Emil Paape; siblings, Andrea Fitzgerald, Bon Merchlewitz, and Bud Paape; and her daughter, Shannon Pringle.

Visitation will take place from 10 AM to 12 Noon on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home, 376 E. Sarnia St., Winona. A light luncheon and refreshments will be served in the funeral home's community room during the visitation.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Marte’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.