Timothy Kniep Obituary

Timothy “Tim” Gene Kniep, 63, passed away on March 13, 2026.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home in Sioux Falls.

Tim was known for his kind heart and gentle spirit. He was the kind of person who would do anything for others, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer quiet encouragement. Tim cared deeply about his community and often volunteered at The Banquet, where he enjoyed giving back and serving others.

Tim had a lifelong love for animals. From an early age he had a soft spot for them, especially cats, and he never forgot the joy animals brought him. He also loved feeding the birds and squirrels, always making sure they had something to eat and a place to visit.

Born and raised in Sioux Falls, Tim graduated from Washington High School. He continued his education at Dakota State University in Madison, South Dakota, and later took classes at Southeast Technical College. For many years he worked at Hutchinson Technology, where he built lasting friendships and took pride in his work. More recently, Tim worked at the Washington Pavilion, helping with the setup and teardown for the many events and performances that came through the venue.

Tim was a creative and artistic soul. He had a remarkable talent for detailed pinpoint artwork and enjoyed creating portraits that reflected both his patience and eye for detail. He also loved books and learning, often spending time at the Sioux Falls Public Library, where he could read, explore new ideas, and search for answers to whatever sparked his curiosity.

As a child, Tim loved ice skating. During the winter months his father would flood the family garden to create a skating rink, and those memories remained special throughout his life.

One of Tim’s proudest accomplishments was helping create the light show at the Falls in Sioux Falls, an experience that continues to delight visitors and residents alike. His talents even led to the opportunity to help design a similar light show in Puerto Rico, something he was very proud to have been part of.

Tim had a gentle way with children and a warm presence that made others feel welcome. Whether sharing stories, helping someone solve a problem, or simply offering a smile, he brought kindness into the lives of those around him.

Grateful for having shared his life are his siblings, Eliane Arpad of Kansas; Judy and Jim Vollmer of Sioux Falls; and Randy Kniep of Sioux Falls; and his many nieces and nephews, James(Makesha) Vollmer of Washington, Brian(WeiChen) of Washington, Robin(Bob) Jamison of Washington, Krista Mack of Wisconsin, Shane Kniep of Sioux Falls, Beth Kniep of Sioux Falls, Bekki Kniep of Omaha, Andy Kniep of Sioux Falls, Chris Arpad of Arizona, Michelle Keller of Kansas, Lisa Giffin of Texas, and Kevin Arpad of Kansas; and one uncle Dan Deubler, Oklahoma. 

He is also survived by his best friend, Larry Etten, who shared many meaningful moments and memories with him.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Martha Kniep, and his brother, Kenneth Kniep.

Tim will be remembered for his kindness, creativity, love of learning, and the quiet ways he made the world a little brighter for those around him.

Heritage Funeral Home is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Kniep funeral 
Time: Apr 1, 2026 02:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
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