Jason T. Knickerbocker

Jason Thomas Knickerbocker, age 48, of Grand Rapids Michigan passed in his sleep on Friday, October 5th after a long history of diabetes.  Jason was born and raised in Grand Rapids.  He was a talented chef who began his craft at Grand Rapids Community College.  He was the first chef at Roses in East Grand Rapids.  During his twenties, Jason worked in New York and later in Seattle honing his cooking skills.  After 10 years, he returned to Grand Rapids to resume his career and complete a Bachelors Degree in History at Grand Valley State University while working at Reserve.  In 2016, he became chef at the opening of the New Holland Knickerbocker where he worked until his death.  Jason is survived by his mother, Mary Ann (Bewick) Wagner, his father, Larry Robert Knickerbocker of Juneau, AK, and his son Maximilian Bewick Knickerbocker.  In addition, he is survived by his half brothers, Nathan and Matthew Knickerbocker of Traverse City, MI.  Jason was a committed father to his son, Max.  He was an accomplished fly fisherman who was delighted to be on the river enjoying the peace of nature and the sounds of the river’s flow.  He was a certified diving instructor and spent time in the Caribbean as a Dive Master.  Jason was an avid reader consuming countless books on history, political science and fiction.  Most importantly, he was a fine chef, respected and admired by his colleagues and a mentor to many.  A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, October 24th at Westminster Presbyterian Church at 47 Jefferson Ave SE.   A reception will follow at 5:00 pm at the New Holland Knickerbocker at 417 Bridge St NW.  The family is requesting donations to Michigan Trout Unlimited, a not for profit organization that protects our environment and natural resources.  Jason will be forever missed by those who loved him.  His laughter filled the room and his exceptional talent for storytelling held all of us spellbound.  Rest in love and peace, “Jay”.

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