Walter Martin Knebusch

Walter M. Knebusch, 62, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at his home in Cleveland, Ohio after a lengthy battle with cancer. Walt leaves behind his loving wife of 27 years, Judith M. Trenkamp. They shared their lives, their hearts and their adventures with each other. Walt also leaves behind two “favorite” grandchildren, Clementine and Stella Trenkamp, that he spoiled every chance he had.

Walt was born on March 10, 1961 to Walter F. and Nancy J. Knebusch (née Krone), who preceded him in death. He is survived by his sister Lynn and her husband Greg Lynch, their two sons Kyle and Ryan, and numerous cousins. He was a graduate of North Olmsted High School and was always proud of his Northeast Ohio roots. For 20 years he worked for the Ohio Turnpike Commission, often spending long winter nights plowing the state’s roadways to ensure the safety of morning commuters, before retiring early due to his illness.

In addition to his wife and grandchildren, Walt leaves behind his “brother from another mother” Tom Wallace. The “Tom & Walt Show” traveled everywhere together, through thick and thin. Their humor and friendship was legendary to everyone who knew them.

For 34 years he was a proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous. He supported countless fellow members and was a fixture at many local meetings. He was especially proud of not having missed a single conference at Cook’s Forest or Founder’s Day for over 30 years.

A natural outdoorsman, Walt loved to fish and was truly happiest when he had a fishing rod in his hand and water at his feet. He was most at home in nature’s beauty surrounded by the good cheer of his friends and family. He was devoted to his fishing brothers to the end, inquiring about their fishing activities and supporting them in their triumphs and setbacks. Every place he went throughout the country he made lifelong friends. Often he would spontaneously go on long road trips to Pennsylvania or New York to help a buddy. He was that type of guy.

Per Walt’s wishes, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in his name to the children’s charity Super Heroes for Kids in Ohio (https://www.superheroestokidsinohio.org/). Funeral arrangements were entrusted to The Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home of Elyria 440-322-4626. Online condolences, photographs and memories of Walt may be shared at www.laubenthalmercado.com