Richard “Bucky” Knope

Richard “Bucky” Knope of Port Washington passed away peacefully at home Friday afternoon, Jan. 2, 2026.  He was 84 years old.

  Richard was born in Two Rivers on Oct. 5, 1941, the son of Edwin and Cecilia (nee Porkorsky) Knope.  

He attended local schools and graduated from Two Rivers High School with the Class of 1959, where he played football, baseball and basketball. He continued his education at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse briefly.

  On Dec. 21, 1975, he was united in marriage with Lois Kugel Roos in Grafton. The couple lived in Mequon before purchasing their home in Port Washington in 1981.

  Bucky was employed as a quality control inspector for EST Co. in Grafton for a number of years. He later took a similar position at Badger Meter in Brown Deer and Maynard Steel in Milwaukee, working for more than 40 years before he retired. Many people knew Bucky as the office manager at Your Special Salon in Saukville, where he helped his wife with the business functions of the salon for many years.

  Mr. Knope was a member of St. John XXIII Catholic Parish, St. Mary’s Church in Port Washington. 

He enjoyed bowling and was a longtime member of the Ozaukee County Bowling League. Bucky loved golf, fishing, watching sports and cheering for the Green Bay Packers and occasionally dropping a quarter in a slot machine at casinos.

  Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife Lois, son Kenny (Michelle) Knope-Benter and daughters Debbie (Brian) Achter and Tracy Hassmer. He is further survived by 10 grandchildren, sister Ginger (the late Jack) Oren, nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.  

Bucky was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Elaine (the late George) Senovich and Carol (the late Randy) Stueck.

  Per his wishes, there will be no formal services.

  If desired, donations may be made in his name to the Wisconsin Humane Society.

Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.