Robert Joseph Knez

Bob Knez, son of Stephen P Knez and Catherine A (Lilek) Knez, was born on November 25, 1937, in Joliet, IL. He graduated from St. Joseph's Parochial School and Joliet Township High School. Bob furthered his education at Kellogg College in Battle Creek, MI, and the Army War College in Carlisle, PA.

Bob will be dearly missed by his children, Steve (Diana) Knez and Jeff (Jackie) Knez, as well as his grandchildren, Jennifer, Michael Knez (Ali), Matthew, Michael Wu, Riley, and Kailing. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Cali, Ronin, Michio, Macha, and Miso, his nieces Debbie, Sarah, Anne, sisters-in-law Kathy Kelley and Judy, and the mother of his grandson Mitchell's children, Abby. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy J. Knez, his parents, Steve and Cathy Knez, his brothers, Ray and Tom Knez, his brother-in-law Bruce, and his grandson Mitchell.

During his high school summers, Bob worked on a section gang (Gandy Dancers) on the EJ&E railway. Following high school, he briefly worked at Caterpillar Joliet before joining the Marines at the age of 17. Bob left the Marines as a Sergeant and returned to Caterpillar, where he became a Punch Card Machine Accountant, laying the groundwork for his future in information systems. It was at Caterpillar where he met and married the love of his life, Nancy J. (Kelley).

Bob and Nancy embarked on a journey that took them to various places, including Waukegan, IL, Battle Creek, MI, Dayton, OH, and Alexandria, VA, among others. Bob's career led him to roles such as a computer programmer at the Navy Electronic Supply Office, a Branch Chief at the Defense Logistics Supply Center, and the Deputy Director of I/S in Dayton, OH. His term paper at the Army War College was selected and published in the Defense Management Journal, showcasing his expertise and dedication.

Bob's professional journey continued as he became the Director of Information Systems at the Defense Information Technology Center (DTIC) in Alexandria, VA. His contributions were not only recognized locally but also on a national level, influencing the Department of Defense. He participated in Ronald Reagan's "Presidents Executive Exchange Program," serving as a consultant to Time Inc. in Chicago, where he played a pivotal role in the company's restructuring. Bob retired as a GS-15 from the Federal Government in 1992.

Amidst their professional endeavors, Bob and Nancy welcomed two sons, Stephen and Jeffry, who both pursued careers in Information Systems, following in their father's footsteps. Nancy found success in her own right as a homemaker, realtor, and banquet manager. The couple eventually retired to Niceville, FL, where they indulged in their shared passions for sailing and tennis before returning to Michigan, which they both considered home.

Bob Knez leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for his family. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him for his kindness, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Semper Fi.

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