Robert Leo Knetzger of Bellevue died at Mission Health Care in Bellevue on Friday, September 3, 2010. He was 86 years old.

Mr. Knetzger was born on March 9, 1924 in Milwaukee, Wisc., to Alois and Irene Knetzger. He went to a one-room schoolhouse graduating with two others in his eighth grade class. The first of his family to go to college, Mr. Knetzger graduated in 1948 from the University of Iowa, magna cum laude, and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, National Honorary Society. He received his Masters degree in mathematics from the University of Iowa in 1949.

Mr. Knetzger worked for Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company where he met his wife Evelyn; they were married in 1951. He subsequently worked for Square D Co. and the WA Krueger Co. retiring from the latter company in 1987 as Vice President and Treasurer.

During World War II, Mr. Knetzger served in the European Theater of Operations with the 320th Combat Engineers attached to the 95th Infantry Division.

Mr. Knetzger is survived by his wife, Evelyn; sons, Robert C Knetzger (Deborah) of Kirkland and Jack R. Knetzger (Marilyn) of Plano, Texas; daughter, Patricia A. Fullam (Francis) of Flossmoor, Ill., and four grandchildren.

A funeral mass was held at St. Louise Catholic Church, Bellevue.

Remembrances may be made in Mr. Knetzger’s name to Catholic Relief Services.

Friends and relatives are invited to view photos, full obituary and share memories in the family’s online guest book at www.flintofts.com.