Robert Knope

Robert F."Bob" Knope, 91, Rockford, passed away Wednesday, May 29, 2013, in Rockford Memorial Hospital. He was born May 10, 1922, in Rockford, the son of Roy V. and Nell F. (Cleary) Knope. Bob spent most of his life in Rockford but lived in Rock Island from 1939, until returning to Rockford in1953. He was a graduate of Rockford High School and Rock Valley College. Bob married Shirley M. Anderson in Rock Island on May 7, 1946. He was a Tech Sergeant in the Army during WWII serving in New Guinea, the Philippines and Japan. Bob worked as a printer for the Rockford Newspaper for 22 years, then in the computer room for 9 years, retiring as an electrical technician in 1984. He was a charter member of St. Bernadette Catholic Church where he ushered for many years. Bob volunteered for several organizations including Meals on Wheels and the Head Start program.

Survived by his wife of 67 years, Shirley; his children, Michael Knope of Rockford, Constance (John) Blieszner of St. Charles, and Karin (David) McLure of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts; grandchildren, Matthew and Amanda McLure; sister, Barbara Wilson of Louisville, Kentucky and brother-in-law, Robert Dean of Hickory Hills; several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents and his sisters, Jean Knope and Pauline Dean: and his brother-in-law, Sam Wilson.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am, Saturday, June 1, 2013,in St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 2400 Bell Av. Entombment at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 9:45am on Saturday in the church fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Bernadette Catholic Church or the Rockford Rescue Mission, 715 W. State St, Rockford, IL 61102.

Arrangement by Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Av. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.