Dan Leroy Knipple

Daniel “Dan” Leroy Knipple, 70, passed away on October 15, 2026. Born in York, PA, he has been a resident of Hampton since 1979 where he was well known as a percussionist, educator, and business owner. His career spanned from performances, school music direction and private music instruction.

Dan Knipple had served as principal percussionist for the Williamsburg Symphony for over 17 years. In addition, he also has performed with the Virginia Symphony, the Richmond Symphony, the Tidewater Winds, various regional choral groups, and several local churches.

His teaching career is equally notable: from 1980 to 2010, he served as band director at Thomas Eaton Middle School in Hampton.

In addition to his performance and teaching roles, Knipple is the owner of DKPercussion Solutions (also listed as Daniel Knipple’s musical instrument lesson business) in Hampton which he served several public and private school bands repairing percussion instruments for 13 years.

Dan is survived by his wife of 47 years, Michelle B. Knipple; sister, Debra Golden (Pat); brother, David Knipple (Kim); and nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 10-11:00 AM Monday, October 26, 2026 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Roman Catholic Church, 100 Harpersville Rd., in Newport News. Immediately following at 11:00 am. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated by Rev. Dan Beeman. Entombment will follow in Parklawn Memorial Park.

The family wishes expressions of sympathy to take the form of contributions to The ALS Association or Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church. Arrangements are being provided by Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions in Hampton, 757-825-8070.