Robert Stanley Knoke

Robert Stanley Knoke, known to family and friends as Bob, passed away peacefully at his home in Petoskey, Michigan, on November 5, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife and children. He was born on April 30, 1941, in Florence, Wisconsin, to Neal and Doris (Haberkorn) Knoke. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his brothers Richard and Thomas Knoke.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Mary Pozza Knoke; his children, Bert (Karyn) Knoke, Jennifer (Daniel) Zoller, and Kristine (Dale) Burmeister, as well as a daughter of his heart, his niece Lynn (Ira) Liss; his grandchildren, Zandy, Lindsay, Natalie, Stella, Freshta, Ozzie, Bryce, Tess, Hudson and Spencer; and his siblings, Diane Knoke, David Knoke and Mary Seggelink.
Bob proudly served in the U.S. Navy for four years, stationed aboard the USS Northampton in Norfolk, Virginia. After his military service, he graduated from Eastern Michigan University and embarked on a distinguished career in accounting, serving as CEO of Cable Constructors in Iron Mountain before founding and eventually retiring from his own company, WK Communications.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bob was defined by his sharp intellect and endless curiosity, which he satisfied through a lifelong devotion to reading. He always kept a keen eye on the stock market and was a formidable opponent in any game, especially cribbage and gin, where his competitive streak ensured he won every family card tournament.
A devoted family man, Bob's love and unwavering support for his wife, children, and grandchildren were central to his life. He was an active Rotarian with the Iron Mountain Kingsford Rotary Club, where he hosted international exchange students and logged countless miles running in the club's annual Lake Antoine Classic race.
Bob was an avid sports fan, loyal to the Detroit Lions and the University of Michigan. His own playing days included his time on the basketball team, "The Chapin Lakers," which his children loved to watch. This passion created a legacy: he was the family's most dedicated supporter, attending every possible match, game, and meet played by his children and grandchildren. He also loved being active himself, enjoying golf, tennis, and fishing-pastimes he cherished sharing with his family.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 am-11:00 am on November 22, 2025, at the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home in Iron Mountain, Michigan, with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your local library or your favorite charity in Bob's memory.
Condolences to the family of Robert Stanley Knoke may be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.
The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon and Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.