David Lee Knapp was born on November 12, 1952 in Longview, Washington. He is the son of Martin, and Helen Knapp.
He was raised in Ridgefield, WA. Has two older brothers Mike, and John Knapp. He went to Sara Grade School. He then went to South Ridge School. He attended Ridgefield High School until his junior year. He then attended Columbia River High School where he graduated. He went on to Clark Community College for 2 years and took accounting courses.
He worked at Sears while attending Clark College. He decided at that point to join the Navy March 14th, 1977. He retired from the U. S. Navy May 26th 2000.
He is preceded in death by his son William, mother Helen, and father Martin.