Timothy Donald Knaus

A celebration of Tim’s life will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Oxford Hotel in Denver, Colorado. Family and friends are invited to come together to honor his memory.

Born in Arvada, Colorado, on March 21, 1954, Tim was the son of Daniel and Betty Lee Knaus and the brother of Connie Grenemeyer. He graduated with honors from Colorado State University, earning a degree in Political Science and History, and later from the University of Nebraska Law School, where he ranked third in his class and was a member of the Nebraska Law Review.

Tim’s legal and public policy career spanned more than four decades. After clerking for U.S. Federal Judge Jim R. Carrigan, he practiced with firms including Brownstein Hyatt, Mayer Brown, and Kirkland & Ellis before becoming an equity partner at Patton Boggs. In 2002, he founded his own practice, Timothy D. Knaus & Associates, where he directed public policy efforts and high-stakes litigation strategy for clients across the country. His work influenced courts, legislatures, and regulatory bodies nationwide, and he was known for forging bipartisan relationships and navigating complex legal and political challenges with integrity.

Before entering law, Tim served with the Colorado Governor’s Office, the National Governors’ Association, and Legis 50, contributing to policy development in areas ranging from transportation to labor law. Over the years, he worked alongside leaders including Governor Richard Lamm, President Bill Clinton, and First Lady Hillary Clinton.

A lifelong Democrat, Tim dedicated himself to advancing progressive causes. He served as Chairman of the Jefferson County Democratic Party, then as Chairman of the Colorado Democratic Party from 1999 to 2003. He also chaired the Colorado delegation to the 2000 Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles and played a central role in building the state party’s legislative and grassroots campaigns.

Tim’s greatest joy came not from politics or law, but from his family. He was a devoted father and grandfather, cherishing every moment with his children and grandchildren. They will remember his warmth, his storytelling (sometimes the same stories over and over again), his steadfast love, and his unwavering support. He never missed a dance recital, football game, tennis match, school graduation, birthday, or milestone — always showing up with pride and encouragement.

He also had a deep love of food and travel, passions that came alive most when shared with family. His best adventures were exploring the world together — from pub tours across Ireland to savoring unforgettable meals in Italy — experiences that combined his joy in discovery with the people he loved most.

A celebration of Tim’s life will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Oxford Hotel in Denver, Colorado. Family and friends are invited to come together to honor his memory.

As another way to honor Tim, friends are also encouraged to share a favorite photo or story from their time with him, which will be collected for the family.

Tim will be remembered for his devotion to family, his lifelong commitment to justice and democracy, his love of food and travel, and the countless lives he touched with kindness, wisdom, and generosity.

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