Former Enquirer Writer Jim Knippenberg

[redsmetz]

Just saw this on Twitter, former Enquirer staffer Jim Knippenberg passed away today. While it doesn't mention it, I recall Knippenberg writing as a "teen reporter" in the 60's in the papers Teen section they put out weekly (very cool section, each week they'd have the guitar chords for current songs, I still have some I cut out). I think he was an Elder grad.

Former Enquirer writer and columnist Jim Knippenberg, 63, who retired last year after 37 years at the newspaper, died Friday at his home in Covington.

Friends said he had been ill for several days.

Knippenberg’s humorous, irreverent style made him a well-known figure in Cincinnati. He was a fixture on the social scene, including receptions, concerts, parties, bar and restaurant openings, and symphony and opera galas.

The news of his death shocked former colleagues.

“The sadness of his colleagues today must be felt across town by the thousands of lives he touched as a reporter,” said Tom Callinan, Enquirer editor and vice president. “Knip was a walking Rolodex. He knew everyone it seemed. And he could find a great story in anyone he met. He will be missed but his stories will live forever.”

Knippenberg had a bachelor’s degree in literature and a master’s in education,
both from the University of Cincinnati. He interned at The Enquirer in 1969 and 1970, then joined the staff in 1971, covering general news.

During his career, he also was a music writer, entertainment writer, entertainment editor, assistant Enquirer Magazine editor, assistant features editor and features columnist.

[Bob Borkowski]

Originally Posted by redsmetz

Just saw this on Twitter, former Enquirer staffer Jim Knippenberg passed away today. While it doesn't mention it, I recall Knippenberg writing as a "teen reporter" in the 60's in the papers Teen section they put out weekly (very cool section, each week they'd have the guitar chords for current songs, I still have some I cut out). I think he was an Elder grad.

I remember those columns as well. He was talented.

[SunDeck]

That's sad- he was a great guy. I saw him downtown a lot when I worked there. He always seemed like he was having a great time- very energetic, fun to talk to, always sporting some colorful clothing or sunglasses. Thanks for posting that.

[Cyclone792]

He taught a journalism class on column writing at UC, and I took that class with Knip as the instructor in 2003. He was a really, really great guy.

Very sad to hear this. RIP Knip.