Brian Patrick Knapp passed away on April 29, 2026, at the age of 62.
He was born on November 15, 1963, in Glendale, and spent his life building a career defined by leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to family.
Brian is remembered as a husband, father, business leader, and friend whose work spanned finance, risk management, and sustainable agriculture in Colorado’s Vail Valley.
Early Life and Education
Brian graduated from the University of Redlands in 1987 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Political Science.
His academic background laid the foundation for a career focused on analytical thinking, leadership, and strategic decision-making.
Career in Finance and Risk Management
Brian built a successful career in financial services, holding leadership roles across several major institutions.
He worked at:
- Synchrony Financial, where he advanced to Assistant Vice President of Credit Data Management
- General Electric, as a Portfolio Risk Manager
- Citigroup, as Vice President of Risk Management
Across these roles, he specialized in credit portfolios, underwriting strategy, and risk data analytics.
Earlier in his career, he also worked in research with TIAA-CREF and Simmons Market Research Bureau, where he developed strong analytical and leadership skills.
Leadership at Knapp Ranch
In January 2020, Brian joined his father, Bud Knapp, at West Lake Creek Company and Knapp Ranch in Eagle County, Colorado.
He quickly grew into leadership roles, eventually becoming President and CEO.
Under his leadership, Knapp Ranch expanded into a multi-faceted agricultural and business operation, including:
- high-altitude beekeeping and honey production
- vegetable and greenhouse cultivation at 9,000 feet
- apple orchards and mushroom farming
- collaboration with Colorado State University Extension Services
He also helped launch Knapp Harvest in Eagle, Colorado, a retail space showcasing ranch products alongside local Colorado goods.
Brian was deeply committed to sustainable agriculture and innovation in high-altitude farming.
Personality and Interests
Brian was known for his quick wit, dry humor, intelligence, and generosity.
He was comfortable in both formal and casual settings, but always grounded in sincerity and strong personal values.
Outside of work, he enjoyed:
- hiking along rivers
- reading and history
- military films
- sports, especially the Los Angeles Dodgers
- traveling
- good food and time with family
Above all, he valued relationships and meaningful connection with others.
Family and Personal Life
Family was central to Brian’s life.
He is remembered as a devoted husband to Karen and a loving father to Everett. He also shared close bonds with his stepdaughter Saja Cox and her husband Jeff Cox.
He is survived by:
- his wife, Karen
- his son, Everett
- his stepdaughter, Saja Cox (Jeff Cox)
- his brother, Aaron Knapp (Maureen Lee-Knapp)
- his sister, Laura Knapp (René Delgadillo)
- extended family, including aunts, uncle, cousins, and many friends
He was preceded in death by his father Bud Knapp, mother Colleen Durham, and stepmother Betsy Wood-Knapp.
Illness and Final Days
Brian passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
He faced his illness with strength, dignity, and the support of his family and close friends.
Service Information
Brian will be laid to rest on Saturday, May 23, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California.
A separate remembrance gathering will be held in Colorado at a later date.
Legacy and Impact
Brian Patrick Knapp will be remembered for his leadership in both business and agriculture, and for the relationships he built throughout his life.
From financial risk management to sustainable farming innovation in Colorado, his work reflected intelligence, dedication, and vision.
His greatest legacy, however, lives in his family and the people who knew him personally.
He leaves behind a life defined by leadership, integrity, and meaningful connection.
