Robert "Bob" Joseph Knudsen Jr.

Robert Joseph Knudsen Jr. 83, passed away on December 7, 2024, after a long battle with his health in Meridian, Idaho. Bobby was born in Pocatello, Idaho on August 2, 1941, to Robert and Clara Knudsen. Bobby was raised in Aberdeen, Idaho, and was the eldest of six children: Barbara (Tudy) Phillips (deceased); Margaret (Rick) Farnsworth of Eagle; Karyl Klein (Tony Saras) Eagle; Bill Knudsen Eagle; and Tina (Chris) Frost Pocatello. He had two children: Chuck Buchta and Brandon Stears, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

On Sunday, December 7, 1941, Bobby was baptized into the Catholic Church. Bobby played basketball and graduated from Aberdeen High School in 1959. He began college at Idaho State University until he was drafted into the Army. He served at Fort Benning in Fort Moore, Georgia. After his service, Bobby returned home to work on the family farm. He helped grow the business and added Knudsen Irrigation which featured Thunderbird Wheel Lines. It was here that Bobby found that he enjoyed the business world. Bobby was able to own a number of businesses through his successful skills as an entrepreneur. 

Bobby married Sharon Buchta in 1979 and became a father to Chuck and Brandon. They lived in Aberdeen, American Falls, and also had a house in Sun Valley where they enjoyed time together with family and friends. Later on, they would winter in Scottsdale, Arizona. Bobby and his wife loved to travel and experience new things together. Bobby loved collecting many things. Cars were one thing that he was truly passionate about. He had a keen eye when it came to finding a classic car and was eager to share with anyone about his collection. His passion continued on to other antiques and collectibles such as signs and coins. 

He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Knudsen Sr.; his mother, Clara Knudsen; wife, Sharon Knudsen, sister Barbara (Tudy) Phillips; and grandson, Seth Buchta. 

Everyone who knew Bobby knew that his personality was a powerful one. Confidence propelled Bobby in many different ways. His relationships, both business and personal, were developed through his powerful personality and confident persona. 

A viewing will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at Wilks Funeral Home, 211 W. Chubbuck Rd in Chubbuck. Memorial services will be scheduled at a later date. Information will be updated here as it becomes available.