Robert William Knoop

Robert William Knoop, 88, of Neillsville, WI died Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire. Robert “Bob” was born November 17, 1929 in Neillsville the son of Frank and Alice (Korth) Knoop.  He graduated from Neillsville High School and was a member of the FFA.  Bob married Rosemarie Hediger on June 1, 1951. After working on the family farm Bob started hauling can milk to the Neillsville Milk Products.   He drove the 1st Semi and eventually became manager of the Neillsville Coop Transport.  He then started R&S Septic Services, R&S Steaming Service and, after starting in small steps over the years, started R&S Tree farms.  He was very passionate about the Tree Farm and his love of the outdoors could be seen anytime you were with him.  For over 50 years Bob was growing and selling Christmas Trees throughout the Midwest and Texas.  In 2009 Bob and Rose opened up the tree farm for public to choose and cut their tree and giving hay rides through the farm at Christmas time which was and still is a huge hit for families who want to enjoy the outdoors like he did.  He loved to see the smiles on the children’s faces.  Bob was a member of the Wisconsin Christmas Tree Growers Association. Bob is survived by his wife; Rose, two children, Steve (Margaret) of Neillsville, Yvonne (Duane) Zais of Kronenwetter, three grandchildren; Stephanie (Jeff) Gurney, Jeremy (Lacy) Knoop and Ryan Zais of Livonia, MI, four great grandchildren, three sisters; Florence (Robert) Spiegel, Jean (Ken) Goetz and Lois (Gail) Minsaas. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Beverly Ann Knoop, sister, Adeline Schoenherr and two brothers, Ervin and Donald Knoop. Funeral services for Bob will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 26, 2018 at the Gesche Funeral Home in Neillsville.  Pastor Douglas Bjerke will officiate.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Friday morning before the service.  Private burial will be held at Marie Louise Chapel in Christie. Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.   The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Bob’s family with funeral arrangements.