Gloria D. Knappenberger, age 89, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, in West Bloomfield, Michigan, surrounded by family. Born on January 24, 1936, in Pennsylvania, she lived a life rooted in love, devotion, and unwavering commitment to her family.

Gloria graduated from Elizabethtown College with a degree in elementary education. Later in her life she obtained a master's degree from Wayne State and taught at Thompson Middle School in the Southfield Public School District.  Her passion for learning and teaching shaped not only her own life but also the lives of those around her. She carried the values of patience, dedication, and kindness into every role she embraced—most especially as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Family was always first for Gloria. She was the proud mother of three children Barbara (Dirk) Beckwith, Debra (Jeffery) Lockledge, and William Knappenberger. Her heart swelled with pride for her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Her grandchildren are Jenna (Timothy) Latimer, Lindsay (Greg) Szleszynski, Megan (Timothy) Calamita, Kellen (Jamie Rammelsberg) Beckwith, Molly Knappenberger, Samuel Knappenberger, Jacob (Erin) Lockledge, Christian (Casie McClearen) Beckwith and Cynthia Lockledge.  Her great-grandchildren are Zachary Latimer, Emma Latimer, Mason Latimer, Lilyana Szleszynski, Landon Szleszynski, Violet Szleszynski, Alieya Calamita and Phoebe Lockledge.  Gloria never missed a birthday—each card sent with care and love—and she remained deeply connected to her extended family throughout her life. Whether it was attending a performance, cheering at a sporting event, or offering a ride across town, Gloria was there without hesitation.

She found joy in singing in the church choir and playing the piano—music was one of the many ways she expressed her warmth and spirit. Her kitchen was another place where love came to life; cooking for family gatherings brought her happiness and created cherished memories that will live on for generations.

Gloria’s presence was the steady force that held together what she lovingly referred to as her “gentle chaos” of a family. With humor, resilience, and an unshakable sense of duty, she kept everyone grounded—even when stubbornness ran high or sarcasm flowed freely. She taught by example: how to care deeply, laugh often, and show up when it mattered most.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, H. Allan Knappenberger; grandchild Jamie Rammelsberg; brother Charles Keller; and parents Charles and Ila Keller.

Her legacy is one of steadfast love and enduring connection—a testament to a life well-lived and deeply felt by all who knew her. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:  Kidney Foundation of Michigan (nkfm.org), Royal Oak First United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 31, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Royal Oak First United Methodist Church 320 W. 7th Street, Royal Oak, MI  48067

Gathering/Coffee Hour:  10 am - 11 am (prior to service starting)

Luncheon following the service.