Robert Pierce Knowles I (February 25, 1916 – November 3, 1985) was an American businessman and Republican politician. He served 22 years in the Wisconsin State Senate (1955–1977), representing several counties in western Wisconsin. He was the younger brother of Wisconsin Governor Warren P. Knowles (1965–1971).

Robert P. Knowles
President pro tempore of the Wisconsin Senate
In office
January 1967 – January 1975
Preceded byFrank E. Panzer
Succeeded byFred Risser
Member of the Wisconsin Senate
from the 10th district
In office
April 19, 1955 – January 3, 1977
Preceded byWarren P. Knowles
Succeeded byMichele Radosevich
Personal details
Born(1916-02-25)February 25, 1916
River Falls, Wisconsin, U.S.
DiedNovember 3, 1985(1985-11-03) (aged 69)
St. Croix County, Wisconsin, U.S.
Resting placeImmaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery, New Richmond, Wisconsin
Political partyRepublican
Spouse
Madelyne Lucille Armstrong
(m. 1941⁠–⁠1985)
Children
  • Robert Pierce Knowles II
  • (b. 1944; died 1998)
RelativesWarren P. Knowles (brother)
Military service
AllegianceUnited States
Branch/serviceUnited States Army
Army Air Corps
Years of service1942–1945
Rank1st Lieutenant
Battles/warsWorld War II

Biography

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Born in River Falls, Wisconsin, Knowles served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. He then graduated from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls. He was in the insurance and real estate business. Knowles served in the Wisconsin State Senate from 1955 until 1975; his older brother was Warren P. Knowles, the 37th Governor of Wisconsin.[1][2] Knowles was defeated for re election in 1976 by Democrat Michele Radosevich 52%-48%.

Notes

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Wisconsin Senate
Preceded by Member of the Wisconsin Senate from the 10th district
April 19, 1955 – January 3, 1977
Succeeded by
Preceded by President pro tempore of the Wisconsin Senate
January 1967 – January 1975
Succeeded by