Maitland Knapp

Maitland F. Knapp 96 of Pinellas Park passed away March 1, 2013 at home surrounded by his wife, former employees and the kind people of Suncoast Hospice. Pre-deceased by his parents Frank and Louella Knapp, brother Wilfred and sister Shirley. Survived by his wife of 37 years Sheila Knapp, son Dr. Richard (Elizabeth) Knapp, grandson Peter Knapp, granddaughter Heather (Jon) Daugherty, great-grandsons Trent Maitland Knapp and Ben Daugherty, step-daughter Susan (William) Gill, nephew Robert O'Donnell and niece Terry (Jim) Nix. Born August 3, 1916 in Torrington CT; remained in Torrington until World War II, at which time he joined the Merchant Marines, taking training in St. Petersburg FL in 1943 and 1944. As a Merchant Marine, he ferried troops to war zones in Europe and the South Pacific, ignoring danger of enemy submarines. After the war, he became purser on the SS United States (Maiden Voyage) the fastest and most modern ocean liner crossing the Atlantic. His dream after his service was to return to St. Petersburg, where he co-founded Fidelity Title Co. With four employees, he was chairman of the board and managing partner from 1970 to 1995, which became Stewart Fidelity Title Co. (at that time the largest title company in Pinellas County). With many locations in various Florida counties; supporting many local charities, he was an officer of the FLTA. A Mason of 61 years; a member of Gulf Beach Lodge #291 F&AM; Honorary Master for dedication and devotion to his lodge, and was with Egypt Temple Shrine for many years. Mr. Knapp was a member of the Founders Association of Menorah Manor; a member of the St. Petersburg Yacht Club for 45 years; a member of the Committee of 100. Served Meals on Wheels four days a week until he was 94 at which time he was unable to continue. What a great man, father, husband, friend and employer. Special thanks with love to all Hospice caregivers, especially Jean, Sonja, Natara, Betty and Chaplain Larry. In lieu of flowers, donations suggested to the charity of your choice. Visitation Tuesday, March 5, 2013 from 11AM until noon, with service at 12:00PM at David C. Gross Funeral Home in St. Petersburg. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Park, Largo. David C. Gross Funeral Homes, Central Avenue Chapel in St. Petersburg is serving the family Service Information