Myrle E. "Yai Yai" Knapp

Myrle E. “Yai Yai” KnappWas born February 10, 1925 in Silvara, PA, the daughter of the late John F. & Essie C. (Grose) Place.She went home to be with her Lord on Sunday, August 24, 2014, peacefully at St. Josephs Hospital (SNF) surrounded by her family. She was greeted at Heaven’s gate by her loving husband of 59 years, John (1/4/2008), beloved daughter, Jackie (4/5/2013), and was the last of 8 sisters and 1 brother.She is survived by her children:Jaynie Laprade, John & Lesley Knapp, and Judi & Paul Bedzyk; grandchildren:Dan (Olga) Knapp, Jack Knapp, Amanda (Caleb) Drake, Allison Knapp, Ashley Knapp, Matthew (Brianna) Bedzyk and Mitchell (Sarah) Bedzyk; great grandchildren:Lily Grace Knapp and Joshua Lucas Drake; along with several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and a host of others who referred to her as their “Yai Yai”.Myrle was a faithful member of Elmira Christian Center and retired from the Elmira Christian Academy as a kindergarten teacher in 1987, after 18 years of dedicated service.She was a die hard Boston Red Sox fan, loved chocolate, coffee, and her word searches . Myrle had an intense love for music, especially when it was sung or played by her children or grandchildren. Family and friends are invited to gather at Elmira Christian Center, 235 E. Miller St., Elmira, NY on Thursday, August 28, 2014 from 3:00 – 6:30 pm.Funeral services celebrating her life will follow the visitation.Rev. Dave Leandre, Rev. David Cook, and Rev. Brian Harris will officiate.Interment will take place at the convenience of her family in Woodlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Elmira Christian Center c/o Bereavement Fund.Envelopes will be available at the church.Arrangements have been entrusted to Olthof Funeral Home, Inc.Myrle’s guest book may be signed in obituaries at www.olthof.com Thank youThe Knapp family wishes to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to Dr. John Schiavonne and the 3rd floor staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital (SNF) for the outstanding love and care shown to their mom during her stay.