Robert Lee Knowles

Robert Lee Knowles, 73, passed away on July 22, 2024, at Methodist Hospital in Des Moines.

Robert was born on May 21, 1951, to Lawrence “Neal” and Mary (Small) Knowles in Unionville, Missouri. He lived in Des Moines for many years as a construction worker, specializing in drywall. Later Robert “Bob”, moved to Colorado with his brother, where he ran his own drywall scrapping business. But once his daughter married, he knew he wanted to get back home to Iowa where he would be able to spend quality time with his family.

Bob was an amazing grandfather, spending much time and adventures with his grandkids; whether at the Union Park rocket slide or fishing at any water hole calling his name. And you didn’t have to look too hard to find Jason, his son, running right along side them all.

When back in Des Moines, Bob reconnected with his early love, Dorothy, and it didn’t take long before they were soon married. Bob adored Dorothy and together they enjoyed spotting deer, walking near Riverview Park, watching movies, and just being around the many family and friends that they shared.

Yes, Bob was a very family-oriented person and enjoyed any time he got to spend with his family, as well as his very much loved dog, Annie. He was a talker and had no mute button, but he made any occasion fun for everyone there. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing, hunting, and growing his tomato plants. In fact, he even wrote a song about mushroom hunting that he and his grandkids sang, that went a little something like – “Mushroom on the ground, pick it up, pick it up”.

In his later years, Bob drove a school bus for Ankeny First Student. He really enjoyed his time with his work friends and the kids always gave him a story to tell.

Robert is survived by his wife, Dorothy; his daughter, Melody (Chad) Lucht; his mother, Mary; his grandchildren, Christian (Courtney) Lucht, Caitlyn (Anthony Cooper) Lucht, and Caleb Lucht; his sister, Patty (Mike) Garner; his brother, Glen (Bev McKinney) Knowles; and his cherished nieces and nephews.

Robert is preceded in death by his son, Jason Knowles; his father, Neal; his brother, Danny Knowles; and his beloved dog, Annie.

Family will be greeting friends on Thursday, August 1, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home; 5400 SW 9th Street, Des Moines. Funeral service will immediately follow the visitation at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Unionville Cemetery; South 16th Street, Unionville, Missouri.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in loving memory of Robert.

Condolences may be expressed at www.Hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

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