Kermit Louis Knuppenburg

Kermit Louis Knuppenburg, age 83, passed away Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Green Acres of Mason, Michigan. Kermit, who went by the name of Butch, was born January 19, 1942 in Mount Clemens. Butch spent his early years as a resident of Romeo, Michigan, where he graduated from high school in 1960, married his first wife Carolyn, and raised four children.

Butch excelled in his career as a sales professional at Michigan Rivet, the corporation established by his father. He often worked with the company’s engineers in designing parts.

In his later years, Butch and his second wife Rose enjoyed entertaining at their homes in Tawas, Michigan and Punta Gorta, Florida. His interests were many and varied; he was a firearm enthusiast and enjoyed hunting, shooting, riding horses, and traveling. He specialized in antiques and collecting Indian artifacts. Buffalo Bill was Butch’s favorite old west character and of special significance to him.

Butch is survived by his children, Kermit (Lucy) Knuppenburg of Macomb Township, and Melony Caringi of Lapeer, stepsons, Mark Keiling of Washington state, and Steve Keiling of California, grandchildren, Kermit C. (Jamie) Knuppenburg, Dane Knuppenburg Jr., Tyler (Katie) Trombley, Max Keiling, and great-grandchildren, Noah Crampton, and Aurora Knuppenburg. He is preceded in death by his wife Rose, son Dane, grandson Andrew, daughter Mary Beth, and sister Dottice Stade.

Visitation will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026 from Noon until 4:00 PM, with funeral services beginning at 4:00 PM held at the Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home (11280 32 Mile Road, Romeo Michigan 48065).