Robert Knowles

Robert W. Knowles, 83, went to join the Lord on April 25, 2018, while resting peacefully at home with loved ones by his side. Bob was born in Madelia, Minnesota as one of nine children to parents Paul and Helen Knowles. In the nearby town of St. James, Minnesota he met the love of his life, Marilyn. Bob and Marilyn recently celebrated 63 years of marriage. Bob was a career Veteran of the United States Army, entering as an enlisted man, and through his hard work was promoted to Officer, Commander and retired as a Major. He served his country through four tours in Korea and Vietnam. Bob had multiple assignments in Infantry, Armor, and the Airborne 101st Division as a Ranger and Special Forces. Throughout Bob's military career, the Knowles family moved many times. The family often joked this was to acclimate the kids to different parts of the country, so they could spend time traveling between kids during retirement. Bob and Marilyn lived a life full of adventure and experienced much of the world together. After a successful military career spanning over two decades, Bob retired. He and Marilyn then purchased and ran a small family resort in Lake Hubert, Minnesota. As their kids left home they sold the resort to follow their dreams of part-time - and eventually full-time - RV'ing. Throughout years of traveling they enjoyed visiting family and meeting many new friends, who they continued to correspond with long after their travels. Bob always enjoyed returning to Minnesota every summer to visit with family and spend time on the lake fishing. Eventually Bob and Marilyn settled in the Ocala, Florida community where they continued to be active for many years. Bob was a regular golfer and enjoyed league bowling with Marilyn and friends. Bob is survived by children Rick Knowles, Deb Knowles (Susan), Mark Knowles, and Pam Ellingson (Greg), sisters Darlene Sexton (Orie), Dorothy Olson (Pete), and Kathryn Torgerson (Harold). Additionally, Bob is survived by 5 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife Marilyn, parents Paul and Helen Knowles, and siblings Ralph, Harold, Duane, Betty, Patricia, and many in-laws and friends. Bob leaves a legacy of dedication to the American dream, demonstrating that success in life can be achieved with bravery, hard work and perseverance. Bob will be laid to rest alongside Marilyn at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell

Robert Knowles

January 31, 1935 - April 25, 2018