Robert Knorr

Coleharbor

Robert “Bob” Knorr, 82, Coleharbor, formerly of Sawyer passed away peacefully, May 1, 2025, surrounded by his family at his home in Maricopa, Ariz.

Robert Dale Knorr was born April 13, 1943, in Minot. His parents were Arthur and Doris (Natwick) Knorr. Robert was raised in Sawyer and attended Sawyer High School.

He attended North Dakota State University (NDSU) and was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity.

Bob met the love of his life, Cheri Odegaard, while attending college, and they were married on June 6, 1964, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Devils Lake. They began their life together in Fargo with Bob finishing his bachelor’s degree while Cheri taught school.

Bob and Cheri settled on a farm south of Sawyer where they raised their five children and lived for over 40 years. They were members of Bethany Lutheran Church and actively involved with their children.

Bob started farming in 1965 with optimism and vision. Bob’s hard work ethic and gift of overcoming challenges led him to farming operations and ventures in both North Dakota and Arizona. Bob’s passion for agriculture was passed on to his two sons Steve, farming in North Dakota and Rob, farming in Arizona.

His life’s work included his dedication to service. He was President of the North Dakota Wheat Producers and worked on several farm bills. In 1978, he was recognized as one of America’s National Outstanding Young Farmers–a reflection of his leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence. In the 1980s, he was appointed to the Advisory Council for the Federal Reserve Bank.

Bob was a strong supporter of NDSU and a passionate Bison football fan. All five of Bob’s children attended NDSU. Bob attended the first Bison Football National Championship game in 1965 and the most recent Bison National Championship game in January 2025.

Through his involvement in the NDSU Team Makers he developed many lifelong friends.

Bob’s greatest joy was his family. He and Cheri instilled in their children and grandchildren the values of hard work, generosity, and faith. Every summer, the family gathered at the lake to be together. Bob loved going to the farm every day, whether in North Dakota or Arizona. He led a purpose driven life.

Known for his determination, optimism, and unwavering sense of purpose, Bob lived a life defined by faith, service, and a steadfast commitment to the next generation. He leaves behind a family inspired by his example. Bob was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer over a year ago and fought hard. He always maintained a positive outlook and a heart filled with gratitude.

Bob is survived by his five children: Alyssa Knorr, Charleston, S.C.; Alonna Knorr, New Haven, Conn.; Renae (Kevin) Beeter, Minot; Rob Knorr, Maricopa, Ariz.; and Steve (Margo) Knorr, Minot; 16 grandchildren: William, Robert and Olivia Hollier, Marren, Isabella and Grantham Norberg, Nicholas, Lucas and Zachary Beeter, Robert, Jake, Averie, Juliette, Collin, Camrynn and Katelynn Knorr; brothers and sisters: Gene (Lorelei) Knorr, Rio Verde, Ariz.; and Carol Hazelbower, Phoenix, Ariz.; Paul (Connie) Knorr, Phoenix, Ariz.; Mark (Carol) Knorr, Velva, N.D., and Kay Knorr, Phoenix, Ariz. along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Cheri Knorr; parents, Arthur, and Doris Knorr; in-laws, Walt, and Marren Odegaard; brother-in-law, Walt Odegaard; niece, Aimee Larson, and nephew, Patrick Knorr.

Celebration of Life for Robert ‘Bob’ Knorr: 11 a.m. Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot. To view a livestream of the service or to share memories and condolences access www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com

Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.

Visitation: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 from 5 – 6 p.m, followed by a Public Prayer Service at 6 p.m., both at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot.

Published by The Minot Daily News, May 19, 2025.