Marie Mohn Knapp, a longtime resident of Fair Haven, passed away peacefully Sept. 8, 2026.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Marie was the daughter of Walter and Margaret Mohn. She was educated in the Pittsburgh Public School System, where her aunt, Dr. Marie Saul, served as superintendent. Marie graduated from Bucknell University in 1949 and began her career as a fourth-grade teacher in the Pittsburgh Public School System.
Marie married John P. Knapp and, in 1965, they moved to Fair Haven, where they raised their family. In 1967, she joined the Red Bank Public School System, teaching fourth- and fifth-grade students for more than 20 years. She was a devoted educator who found great joy in helping children learn and grow.
Beyond the classroom, Marie was deeply committed to her community. She was an early supporter of Monmouth Day Care Center, serving on its board of directors before becoming board president. She was incredibly proud of the organization’s mission and impact, and her dedication continued long after her active service as she was honored with the title of president emerita.
Teaching gave Marie the gift of summers, many of which she happily spent at Surfrider Beach Club in Sea Bright, where she was a member for more than 40 years. She also enjoyed the challenge and camaraderie of duplicate bridge, becoming a Master Bridge player and participating in numerous bridge groups throughout the years.
Marie was predeceased by her beloved husband, John P. Knapp, and her brothers, James and Robert Mohn.
She is survived by her three sons, John Knapp and his wife, Rose; Stephen Knapp and his wife, Michele; and Peter Knapp and his wife, Kelly. She also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren, Kristine Jack, Stephanie Knapp, Emily Knapp, Kyle Knapp and Wyatt Knapp, as well as four great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.
The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Monmouth Day Care Center, an organization that remained close to Marie’s heart throughout her life.
Marie will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to education, her service to the community and the love she shared with her family, friends, students and all whose lives she touched. Her kindness, generosity and quiet strength leave a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.
The article originally appeared in the September 24 – 30, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
