Ralph Knapschafer

Ralph “Joe” Knapschafer Jr., a resident of rural Portland, passed away on Monday, April 28, 2025 at IU Health Jay Hospital in Portland. 

Joe was born Jan. 13, 1953, in Portland, Indiana, the son of Ralph and Lois (Hutchens) Knapschafer. He graduated from Portland High School in 1971 and was a member of The Church at Westchester and Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association. He worked for Horizon Homes, Champion Homes and retired from FCC in Portland in 2018. 

Joe married Mary Betz on June 20, 1981. 

Survivors include:

His wife — Mary Knapschafer, Portland, Indiana 

Two sons — Jeremy Knapschafer (wife: Ashley), Bryant, Indiana, and Jason Knapschafer (Ashley), Portland, Indiana 

Grandchildren — Dylan, Rowdy and Jaley Knapschafer

Sister — Christine Whitenack (husband: Don), Portland, Indiana 

Visitation will be held on Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Williamson-Spencer and Penrod Funeral Home in Portland. Funeral services will follow at 2 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home. Pastor Darrel Borders will officiate and burial will follow at Gravel Hill Cemetery, west of Bryant. 

Memorials may be directed to Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association. 

Condolences may be sent to williamsonspencer.com.