David W. Kniess, 69, passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026, following years of health challenges.

David was born on Easter Sunday, April 21, 1957, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the late Irwin and Julayne (Waldon) Kniess. He graduated from Seymour High School in 1975 before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force from 1975 to 1979, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. Following his military service, David attended Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, where he earned a degree in Police Science.

On December 27, 1985, David married Teresa “Terry” Campshure. Together, they shared 40 years of marriage, building a life centered around family, love, and cherished memories. Above all else, David was a family man - a devoted husband, father, and Papa. His children and grandchildren meant the world to him, and the time he spent with his family was among his greatest joys.

David had a lifelong passion for martial arts, dedicating much of his adult life to the discipline. He earned his third-degree black belt (3rd Dan) in Tae Kwon Do and was a two-time Wisconsin state champion. He also enjoyed the outdoors, spending many deer hunting seasons with family in Newald and sharing countless fishing adventures with Terry. Together, they enjoyed metal detecting and rockhounding along the shores of Lakes Superior and Michigan.

A gifted and creative artist, David expressed himself through drawing, painting, and airbrushing. His artistic talents were also showcased through his multi-year participation in Sturgeon Bay’s Street Art Auction, where he got to design and paint large sturgeons.

David will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Terry; his children, Eric Kniess, Serena (Jeff) Christian, and Ryan Kniess; and his grandchildren, Jesse Kniess and Jeffery Christian Jr. He is further survived by his sisters, Cathy Treml, Debbie Kniess, and Kim Kniess; his in-laws, Joe Campshure, Terri Lefebvre, Anne Campshure, and Helen Hejewsky; nephew, Jason Mellen; niece, Crystal Verdegan; as well as many other relatives and dear friends.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Irwin and Julayne Kniess; his beloved grandson, Anthony David; his parents-in-law, Richard and Mary Grace Campshure; his sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Campshure; and his brother-in-law, John Treml.

David’s family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Laurie Seebruch for her unwavering friendship, kindness, and support over the past four years. The family would also like to sincerely thank the dedicated staff at Wyndemere and Moments Hospice for the specialized, compassionate care they provided David, as well as the comfort and support they extended to him and his family during his final days.

Papa - no matter how old I get, I will always be your little girl. Thank you for the love, the lessons, the memories, and all the little pieces of you that will forever be a part of me. I wish we had more time, but I am so grateful for the time we had. Rest easy, Papa. I love you, always and forever. ❤️ - Rena