Andrew Knepper, or simply Andy as many knew him, passed away April 16, 2017 after a brief illness. The life preceding was full and wholehearted. He was born on October 18, 1928 in Olive, Missouri-a small farming community in Dallas County.
Andy was educated in a two-room school house, not knowing his future wife Alice Hill sat in the other room. He moved on to Elkland High School where he played basketball all four years. After graduation, he attended the Rolla School of Mines to become a civil engineer.
After college, Andy joined the US Army as a Second Lieutenant in the Korean War where he designed and oversaw construction of air strips for the Air Force. Before the conflict ended, he reached the position of First Lieutenant. During his time overseas, he courted Alice through letters and after completing his service, they wed on October 2, 1954.
Andy briefly worked for the US Geological Service after returning home, but the demands of travel led him to the Missouri Department of Transportation where he worked as a Civil Engineer. Before retiring, Andy was named the district construction engineer for the St. Louis region. In his younger days, he held a pilot’s license and spent much of his spare time in the air. He and Alice also traveled throughout the country and the world sightseeing.
After his long career of public service, Andy and Alice moved to Rogersville where he filled his days beautifying his land along the James River as well as woodworking in his shop. He also enjoyed watching the St. Louis Cardinals and attending Lady Bears games.
He is preceded in death by his parents and brother. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Alice and Alice’s family as well as many nieces and nephews.
Andy’s family wants to submit its upmost gratitude to all of those at Oxford Hospice for their care and warmth during his final days.
Visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00 PM Thursday, April 20, 2017 with services following at 2:00 PM at Greenlawn Funeral Home East. Burial with full military honors will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.