Garry N. Knopf

Garry N. Knopf, 90, of Plover, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

Garry was born on March 23, 1936, in Toledo, Ohio, to Nicholas and Lillian Knopf. He spent his childhood in Ohio alongside his sister, Ramona, where his lifelong curiosity about the natural world first began to take root.

That curiosity led Garry across the country in pursuit of higher education. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho, followed by a Master of Science degree from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. His research and studies took him throughout the Western Hemisphere before he completed his Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Colorado Boulder.

A biologist and herpetologist, Garry devoted his career to studying reptiles and amphibians, combining his love of science with a passion for exploration. His work carried him to diverse landscapes, deepening both his understanding of wildlife and his appreciation for the natural world.

While in Boulder, Garry met the love of his life and best friend, Sharon Gullickson. They were married on August 26th, 1964 and built a life together rooted in love, adventure, and shared curiosity. They eventually made their home in Plover, Wisconsin, where Garry joined the biology faculty at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point and they welcomed their only son, Travis. As a family they continued to travel, learn, and enjoy the outdoors.

Outside of his professional life, Garry found joy in exploring nature, tending his elaborate garden, practicing his Spanish, discussing world events, and sharing his knowledge with others. Garry’s favorite places included the Black Hills of South Dakota, the diverse landscapes of Colorado, the Sonoran Desert of Arizona, and beautiful beaches and culture of Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico. He approached life with an inquisitive mind and a genuine appreciation for the world around him.

Above all, Garry’s dedication to his wife was evident. Throughout his 60-plus years of marriage, Sharon was his greatest partner and constant companion. Even while facing his own health challenges, he remained steadfast in caring for her, offering comfort, companionship, and quiet acts of love each day. His selflessness and devotion to Sharon reflected the deep commitment that defined their marriage.

Garry will be remembered for his love of the natural world, his lifelong pursuit of knowledge, and the devotion he showed to his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, teacher, mentor, and friend.

Garry is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon; his son, Travis (Michelle) Knopf; and his granddaughter, Madisen (Alexandro) Nuñez.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Lillian Knopf, and his sister, Ramona Gottlieb.

A Celebration of Life for Garry will be held at 11:00AM on Friday August 14, 2026 at Pisarski Community Funeral Home-2911 Plover Road, Plover. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10:00AM until the time of services. Pisarski Funeral Homes are honored to be serving the Knopf Family. For online condolences please visit www.pisarskifuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you simply honor Garry’s memory by sharing in the celebration of his life. Any memorial gifts given to the family will be donated in his honor to the Humane Society of Portage County and Schmeeckle Reserve, reflecting his lifelong passion for nature, wildlife, and conservation.