Hartford, Vt.
He enjoyed his time at East Topsham Elementary School with activities such as square dancing, sledding, skiing at Northeast Slopes, sugaring, playing up on Antenna Hill, and driving the “doodle-bug”. As he grew older he spent time working side by side with his father developing many skills, with his curious mind always seeking to learn more. Through these experiences he formed a strong work ethic and gained valuable hands on education he would use the rest of his life. Brent graduated from the former Bradford Academy in 1969, which he immediately followed by joining the work force. He became a Master Plumber and Plumbing teacher, sharing his skills with ARC Mechanical Inc. for 30 years.
An Inspirational Love Story. Brent met his beautiful bride Martha in 1994 through mutual friends and married the following year at Saint Gaudens. So in love, these two soulmates took on the world together and shared their love with their newly combined family. Along with enjoying time with their children, they spent time traveling—in journeys across the country or trips overseas, they saw the world side by side and continued their adventures on to the present day. Martha brought out the best in him.
The Knapp home not only provided endless amounts of love and support for their own family, but it also fostered and guided many young adults who desperately needed comfort and love. Brent was a humble man, an amazing teacher, and he touched many people’s hearts.
Brent is survived by his wife, Martha; his brother, Mark; his children and their families: Shad and Jann Knapp and their dog Lucy; Aaron and Amy Knapp and their children, Gabrielle and Adalynn; Samantha and Chris Blanchard and their children, Chloe, Chase and Christian; Bridget and Chris Baker and their daughter, Emma; Alamar Brown and his daughter, Ashley Brown.
Since 2010 Martha and Brent became members of the board of the Hartford Historical Society, finding many uses for their combined skills. Brent especially was a treasured member with his broad knowledge of everything. “Mr. Fix it” repaired the cement back stairs, the back porch, fixed plumbing, made museum cases for displays and created the cement base for the Historical Woolen Mill Bell. He also shared his talents with the Justice Center workers. His BBQ, hot dogs, and fresh squeezed lemonade made him a hit at many of the Society’s events.
Time with his family and friends was most important to him. He was a fun loving connoisseur of microbrews. He enjoyed being the designated driver for the women in his life who enjoyed attending wine tasting events in the Upper Valley. He was truly an amazing, loving and kind man, husband and father. He is very well loved and will be missed by all who knew him.
There will be a celebration of his life held on May 14. For further details please contact his daughter Samantha Blanchard on Facebook.