Robert W. Knott, 74, of Exeter, RI a professional Broadcast Engineer and Home Radio Operator Call sign K1RWK, went 'silent key' and passed away at home with family nearby early in the morning of Friday, July 12, 2024, after a long battle with cancer.
Born April 20, 1950, in Providence, RI, Bob was the son of Cecile and William Knott.
Bob graduated Warwick Veterans Memorial Highschool in 1968. He was one of the original broadcast engineers at Rhode Island's Public Television Station- WSBE Channel 36, retiring after more than 30 years of service there. After retirement, Bob contributed his technical skills to ocean exploration, establishing 'Tele-Presence' at Mystic Aquarium and also building the Inner-Space Center (ISC) at URI while sailing aboard the E/V Nautilus with Dr. Robert Ballard. He also sailed on the Okeanus Explorer with other well-known marine scientists. Bob's love of the sea carried over to his personal life, taking ocean cruises so numerous that Bob joined the Cruise Brothers organization allowing him to organize vacation cruises for others.
The greatest love in Bob's life was his family. The annual Christmas gathering filled his house with love and laughter with all of his kids and grandchildren. Bob cherished his summers camping with family, fishing, canoeing and kayaking. His family were blessed to know that his final days were spent doing what he loved, at the campground creating precious memories with his beloved family.
Bob enjoyed playing the French Horn. He was and original member of the Warwick Symphony Orchestra as well playing with the Shrine Band. He also played with the Wakefield Concert Band and the Lafayette Band, even playing the 4th of July Concert this year.
He was a Master Mason for 23 years, a member of the former Washington Lodge #4 F.& A. M. now Mount Vernon Lodge #4 in North Kingstown, RI.
Bob is survived by his wife Donna L. (Grinnell) Knott, six children: Marc Thayer (Mary), Deanna Perry, Derek Thayer, Kelly Sturdevant (Charles), Jeremy Thayer (Shanna) and Bethany Knott (Daniel); four siblings: James Knott, Karen DiLauro, Carol Urban and Carl Knott. He is also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Calling hours will take place at Carpenter-Jenks Funeral Home, 659 East Greenwich Avenue, West Warwick on Tuesday, July 16 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. followed with Masonic Service at 7:00 p.m.
A Memorial Service will take place at Mt. Vernon Lodge #4, 1515 Ten Rod Road, North Kingstown on Saturday, July 27, at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's memory may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607or online at https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/giving
