Funeral Details

Jules F. Knapp, 91, of Stuart Florida, formerly of Chicago, Illinois died surrounded by his family on April 8, 2020. Jules was a successful entrepreneur and nationally renowned philanthropist. He began his business education by delivering newspapers at the age of 10 and continued with other jobs including selling shoes. After an early career selling paintbrushes, he embarked on his first entrepreneurial venture by co-founding United Coatings Inc, a paint company, with his brother Fred. They grew it steadily, becoming the largest private label paint manufacturer in the United States, winning several Vendor Of The Year awards from Walmart, Handy Andy and numerous other customers. United Coatings eventually merged with Pratt and Lambert and was purchased by Sherwin Williams in 1996. Jules later purchased Grisham Manufacturing, a maker of steel security doors, and ran the company until he sold it in 2014. He continued working as an entrepreneur, board member, philanthropist, and as a mentor to start ups until the day he passed. Jules met and married the love of his life Gwen in 1956. Together they had 4 daughters. Chari z”l, Elyse Sollender (Jeffrey z”l) (Mark Lohkemper), Joy z”l, and Susan Schulman (Bradley). Jules and Gwen have been lifelong philanthropists by donating their time and resources to a multitude of organizations throughout the country including The University of Chicago, where they founded the Gwen Knapp Center for Lupus and Immunology research, The Jules Knapp Medical Research Center, and The Gwen and Jules Knapp Center for Biomedical Discovery. In 1996 Jules and Gwen were named the first Honorary Fellows of the Biological Sciences Division in recognition of the important work they had made to the future of medical research. In 2007, the University awarded them The University of Chicago Medal, recognizing their distinguished service of the highest order to the University. In addition to the University of Chicago, they have also been strong supporters of numerous Jewish organizations. These include the Chicago Jewish Federation, JCFS Chicago, Jewish Federation of San Diego County, The Hebrew University, and many synagogues throughout the country. In 2018, Jules and Gwen committed to help Cleveland Clinic Martin North Hospital renovate its emergency department. When completed, the new emergency center will be doubled in size and contain the latest technology, enabling the hospital to serve more of the Treasure Coast community by enhancing the quality of care and overall patient experience. Jules F. Knapp will be remembered for his endearing smile, zest for life, positive attitude, infinite amount of energy ( He is famous amongst his family for wearing his grandchildren out after a day of activities), generosity of spirit and living every day to the fullest. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, daughters and grandchildren Shane, Griffin (Kylie Ford), Jonah and DJ. Interment will be private on Sunday, April 12 in Chicago. A celebration of his life will be planned for a future date. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to: University of Chicago, Gwen Knapp Center for Lupus and Immunology Research, 130 E. Randolph #2500, Chicago, 60601 Or Cleveland Clinic Martin Health Foundation, PO Box 9010, Stuart, Florida, 34995. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com