Oct. 12, 2012 — Sandy Knipp, a fixture for fans of WMKY (90.3 FM) and his Bluegrass Diversion program, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 10.
The retired teacher and principal began hosting the weekly program in January 1991.
As a musician, Knipp had done it all. As a songwriter, his songs have been recorded by Don Rigsby, Bluegrass Strangers, Scott Tackett and Kentucky Sunrise, and Darvin Sturgill.
He emceed numerous regional concerts, festivals and bluegrass music events including, Americana Crossroads Live, Appalachian Celebration, Carter County Bluegrass Festival and Poppy Mountain Bluegrass Festival.
In 2002, Knipp, a former director of the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music, was the recipient of the Appalachian Treasure Award.
Sen. Walter Blevins honored Knipp in 2011 on the senate floor in Frankfort and hand delivered the proclamation for his 20 years as host.
He also had battles with his health; Knipp was a two-time survivor of kidney transplants.
He is survived by his wife, Deborah Maple Knipp, one son, Terry Knipp and wife Nikki of Morehead, two stepsons, David Hansen of Covington, and James Hansen of Columbus, Ohio, two daughters, Leigha Hale and husband Jason of Mt. Sterling, and Shelli Knipp and husband Gene Glover of Clearfield, one stepdaughter, Emily Hansen of Morehead, and 13 grandchildren.
Funeral services will be conducted 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, at the Johnson First Church of God with Pastor Ben Furman officiating. Other participants will include Brother Aubrey Kautz, Jr., Bob Christian, and Brother Johnny Hatfield. Burial will follow in the Knipp Cemetery on Knipp Road.
Visitation will be after 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12, at Northcutt and Son Home for Funerals and after 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, at the Johnson First Church of God. (Visit guest book)
Memorial contributions are suggested to Johnson First Church of God Youth Group, 590 Cranston Road, Morehead, 40351.
