Robert Kneisley

Robert Warren Kneisley -known to most as Bob-passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with prostate cancer. He faced that battle with characteristic determination, grit, and a quietly competitive spirit that never quite left him.

Bob was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and grew up in the Wilmington, Delaware area with his three brothers, where early lessons in teamwork, competition, and loyalty clearly stuck. A lifelong learner, Bob earned his B.A. from Swarthmore College in 1967, an M.A. in Chemistry from Columbia University in 1968, and a J.D. from Boston University School of Law in 1973-proof that he was equally at home in the lab, the classroom, and the courtroom.

Bob began his legal career at the Civil Aeronautics Board, later spending 12 years in private practice as a partner at two Washington, D.C. law firms specializing in aviation law. In 1997, he joined Southwest Airlines as Associate General Counsel, helping establish the company's Washington, D.C. legal office to lead federal regulatory and antitrust work.This chapter was the pinnacle of his professional life. Bob deeply admired the integrity, intelligence, and collegial spirit of the people he worked alongside at Southwest and remained proud of his contributions to the airline's success throughout his career.

Outside of work, Bob approached life much like he approached sports: seriously, enthusiastically, and with the firm belief that there was always room to improve his record. A fierce competitor from a young age, he once entertained dreams of becoming a tennis professional-and his undefeated singles season at Swarthmore in 1967 (still ranking first all-time in single-season win percentage) suggests that dream wasn't entirely unrealistic. He also loved squash, skiing, and golf, forever chasing the elusive goal of "shooting his age."

Bob was equally passionate-if a bit paradoxically so-about horticulture. A dedicated caretaker of his expansive yard, he doted on trees, shrubs, and plantings and proudly declared his John Deere tractor his favorite toy. He built a large enclosed garden to guard the fruits and vegetables from predators, then generously shared the harvest with friends, family, and the local food bank-particularly fitting since Bob famously detested vegetables himself.

Dancing brought Bob another outlet for his competitive joy. He loved ballroom and swing dancing, favored the two-step, and enthusiastically participated in dance competitions and teams. He also carried with him fond memories of his time as a Boy Scout, especially Camp Rodney in Maryland. Bob achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, an accomplishment he held with lifelong pride.

Of all his accomplishments, Bob would likely say that becoming a grandfather was the greatest joy of his life. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and his love for his family was steady, generous, and enduring.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle; his son Michael and daughter-in-law Janae; grandchildren Emerson and Michael (12); daughter Jennifer; grandchildren Lucy (13) and River (4); and his brothers Lawrence and James. He is predeceased by his parents J.Wayne and Evelyn, and brother Steve.

Details regarding a Celebration of Life will be forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National Park Foundation, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Fisher House Foundation, or the Boy Scouts of America. Services entrusted to Going Home Cremation & Funeral Care. Online condolences may be expressed at www.goinghomecares.com