Robert Carl Knerr

HERRIN - It is with great sadness that we announce that Robert Carl Knerr, 74, passed away on Sept. 28, 2025, in Holyoke, Massachusetts.

He was born on Aug. 26, 1951, in Evansville, Indiana, the son of Carl J. Knerr and Kathleen Welge Knerr. Bob grew up in Herrin, Illinois, and graduated from Herrin High School in 1969. He went on to attend the University of Illinois, where he graduated in mechanical engineering in 1973.

Over the course of his career, Bob worked in several fields. He was the youngest ever to be certified as a registered gemologist, working for several years at Neiman Marcus. He worked for several engineering companies where he developed patents that he was proud of. He also owned and operated an irrigation company.

Bob's work and life took him to Decatur, Illinois; Dallas, Texas; Houston, Texas; Monticello and Indianapolis, Indiana; and Holyoke. His heart remained rooted in his hometown of Herrin.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Carl and Kathleen Knerr.

Bob was the proud father of two children, Carl Knerr (Hala) and Tabitha Isner (Shane); a loving grandfather to Taj, Mazen, Safia and Isra Abdul-Knerr, and Tymari Isner. He is also survived by his sister, Karleen (John) Berra and their children Rob and Jim, and grandchildren. Bob also had a close relationship with his cousins, Marilyn Greenwell, Marshall Waller, Pat Ellison, Steve Waller and Mary Janke.

Bob had many interests and talents. He had a lifelong love of Scottish terriers, a tradition within the Knerr family. He was an avid fisherman, spending long days with his dog on his boat and often competing in and sometimes winning fishing tournaments.

A super handyman, he enjoyed "fixing things" for friends and family.

His Catholic faith sustained him throughout his lifetime. Bob will be remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor, his good heart, and especially his love of his children and family.

A graveside service to honor Bob's life will be Nov. 7 in San Carlo Cemetery in Herrin, with Mark Reyling of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church officiating. Friends and family are asked to gather at the cemetery.

Arrangements are being made by Meredith-Waddell Funeral Home.