Robert Norman Knepshield

7/30/1938 – 7/4/2025

Robert Norman “Bob” Knepshield, 86, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2025, in Baltimore, Maryland, where he was born on July 30, 1938. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Bob’s life will be remembered for his deep love for family, service to his church and community and an enduring sense of duty that defined his character.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Knepshield and two daughters: Susan Kathleen (Kathy) Brown and her husband, Billy, and Robin Gage Evans and her husband, Tim. He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. “Poppy” held a special place in the hearts of each of his five grandsons – and every little one who came after. His lap was a cherished haven that will be forever missed.

Bob’s first, most significant and proudest life achievement was convincing Carol Lee Owens to say “yes” and commit to an adventure that ultimately spanned 67 years. She accompanied Bob during his service in the United States Air Force, most notably at Oklahoma’s Tinker Air Force Base. Though he never boasted about his status as a veteran – believing his non-wartime stint hadn’t earned him those bragging rights – his service was nonetheless meaningful to him. When prodded, he would speak fondly of those days as an adventure, never a sacrifice. He often recounted how he was tasked with keeping President Eisenhower’s airplane stocked with everything a Commander-in-Chief could need or want (including Tootsie Rolls) – and how he gained a good 40 pounds as he progressed through the ranks as an Airman.

He and Carol, who lamented never having witnessed a twister during their time in “Tornado Alley,” returned to Dundalk to build their family, life and legacy together. Bob’s work life was true Renaissance-man material: making Bethlehem Steel, tending bar, regulating Maryland insurance companies and selling books.

More than anything, Bob found joy in simple pleasures and loved nothing more than gathering with family, friends and neighbors, sharing stories and laughter and enjoying meals that, depending on the season, featured charcoal, donuts or gravy. A lifelong Baltimore Orioles fan, he often led family outings to Memorial Stadium, which were not complete without pizza with their cherished friends and neighbors, the Fousts.

Bob maintained a keen interest in current affairs and politics and particularly enjoyed bantering about and debating the relative honesty of any elected official. The sanctuary he created in his yard for migratory birds symbolized his caring and service-oriented nature; he took meticulous care to make sure the feeders were filled with seed and thistle.

An unassuming demeanor and sense of responsibility, along with a literal and figurative open door, defined Bob Knepshield. He never sought recognition or accolades but instead lived a life rooted in love for his family, community and respect for others. His presence brought warmth to every room he entered. His absence is an immeasurable and unfillable void.

Bob’s memory will always be a comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire those who carry forward his legacy of kindness, curiosity and devotion to family. Details of the celebration of his life will be announced.

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