Robert (Bob) Knops, age76, December 7, 1938 – April 19, 2015. Born in Milwaukee, WI, he moved to Rhinelander in 1969. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Carole; his children, Kristen (Patrick Brennan), Daniel (Lori) and Jeffrey (Jessie); and his five grandchildren, Morgan, Zoe, Ethan, Mia and Sydney; and his brother, Gary (Harriet); nieces and nephews; and many more who loved him dearly.

Bob was a civil engineer and founder of the Fishing Hot Spots Company. He authored countless fishing books and a WWII biography, Return to Memory. He was known by all for his passion for canoeing, basketball and the outdoors. Always active, Bob’s volunteer work included rebuilding homes throughout Central America and New Orleans. He was especially known for leading over 30 wilderness canoe trips in remote areas of Canada.

Husband, father, grandfather, brother, entrepreneur, engineer, author, wilderness man, avid canoe racer, world traveler, Wisconsin sports fan, economist, movie enthusiast and man of strong faith. Bob lived life to the fullest.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 at the Hildebrand Russ Funeral Home from 4 – 7 p.m. The funeral service will be held Thursday, April 23, at 11 a.m. at St. Augustine Episcopal Church with lunch to follow. The family invites all to continue sharing their stories at 2 p.m. at the Al-Gen Dinner Club.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Bob may be given to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

All are invited to light a candle, sign the guestbook, leave a photo or an online condolence at hildebrandrussfh.com.

Arrangements by Hildebrand Russ Funeral Home, 24 E. Davenport St., Rhinelander, WI 54501. 715-365-4343.