Robert Lee Knapheide

Robert Lee Knapheide, 80, of Boonville, Missouri, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 23, 2026, at University of Missouri Hospital.

Robert was born on February 19, 1945, in Boonville, Missouri, the son of Leander and Opal Knapheide. He was united in marriage to Shirley (Twenter) Knapheide on June 14, 1969, and she survives.

Robert graduated from Boonville High School in 1963. In May of that same year, he enlisted in the Missouri National Guard, where he proudly served his country for six years. Robert worked his entire life until retiring in 2012 from the Boonville Correctional Center, where he served as Captain for the final 20 years of his career. He was a natural leader who strived for excellence in every position he held and was recognized on numerous occasions for his commitment, outstanding performance, leadership, and skills.

Most of all, Robert loved spending time with his family. He rarely missed his children’s and grandchildren’s school and sporting activities; he was so proud of them and loved to see them grow and develop their talents. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting—especially with his grandchildren—tinkering in his shop, watching the Kansas City Chiefs and admiring old muscle cars.

Robert is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughter Pamela Hiller (Justin); son James Knapheide (Tasha); grandchildren Ryan Hiller, RyLee Knapheide (Jacey), Kyle Hiller, and Kynna Knapheide; great-granddaughter Landrie Knapheide; sister Arlene Hostteler; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leander and Opal Knapheide; his father- and mother-in-law, Anton and Emma Twenter; and many aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Meisenheimer-Page-Dady Funeral Home in Pilot Grove. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home with burial to follow in the St. John the Baptist Cemetery at Clear Creek. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. John the Baptist Cemetery.