THOMAS BURRLAN KNAPP

Thomas Burrlan Knapp, age 78, died on May 8, 2021 peacefully at home with his family by his side.
Tom was a Marine and a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he earned a Bronze Star and a Purple
Heart. Tom was born on March 21, 1943 in Fullerton, CA to Rose Lee and Sanford Ray Knapp. Tom
moved to Riverside, CA in 1976 where he started his own backhoe business and did this work until he
retired in 2000. In 2006, Tom and his wife Sylvia moved to Apple Valley, CA where they designed and
built their own home. He loved camping, working on his 1972 Mustang, and spending time with his
family.
While serving in Vietnam his Company came under intense fire. Disregarding his own safety, he put
himself in a dangerous position until he sustained a head wound. Despite his injury, he refused medical
evacuation and administered first aid to the other casualties. Because of his brave actions he was
awarded the Bronze Star Medal.
Tom is survived by his wife, Sylvia, 5 children: Brandi Bell (Jason), David Knapp, Andrea Bartelli
(preceded in death), Christine Hoover (Thomas), and Mariano Bartelli. 6 grandchildren: Bryce, Michelle,
Kyle, Tommy, Ashley, and Jarrett and 4 great-grandchildren.
Services will be held on June 9 th at Grimes Akes Family Funeral Home, 500 W. Seventh St, Corona Ca.
Viewing at 9:30, Service at 11am. Burial at 1:15pm at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren
Blvd, Riverside, CA

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Akes Family Funeral Home, Riverside, California

© copyright 2021 Akes Family Funeral Homes

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