A house RESOLUTION

To honor Robert Wayne Kneece, Sr., Vietnam Veteran AND BUSINESSMAN, upon his passing and to extend the deepest sympathies to his family and many friends.

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were deeply saddened to learn that Robert Wayne Kneece, Sr., passed away on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at the age of seventy-four. His passing was peaceful, and he was surrounded by his family; and

Whereas, Robert Wayne Kneece, Sr., was born on June 23, 1949, in Newberry. He was the son of the late Clarence and Mattie Kunkle Kneece; and

Whereas, Wayne was a Vietnam veteran, having served in the United Sates Army, D Troop 2, 17^th Calvary, 101^st Airborne Division better known as "Dirty Delta." He was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, where he served on the property committee and was active in the Lutheran Men. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 24; and

Whereas, a man of strong work ethic, Wayne was the proprietor of many businesses throughout his life. His most notable ventures were the R&W Skating Rink and Kneece's Car Care Services. He believed in the importance of treating all people with dignity and respect and instilled that value in his family. He also taught them to be grateful for every person who came through the door because they were the reason he could put bread on the table; and

Whereas, among his friends and family, Wayne was known for many things. He was a prankster, told it to you like it was, and never held a grudge. He could be stubborn and often enjoyed debating. He was also willing to help others where he could, often stepping in to help in both ways known and unknown. He was a mentor, friend, and role model for many. He truly had a heart of gold; and

Whereas, in 1972, Wayne married Eve Livingston and promised to always love her, to always be faithful, and that life together would be an adventure like none before. He kept this promise until his last breath. He loved his family and was proud of his sons, Robert and Jason, who worked alongside him from a young age. He was an amazing grandfather that treasured his grandchildren; he often could be seen spending time with Coby at Shed 17 or fishing on the pond with Sadie; and

Whereas, in addition to his parents, Wayne was predeceased by his daughter, Hope; brother, Preston Kunkle; and parents-in-law, Ned and Sue Livingston. He is survived by his wife of fifty-two years, Eve; their sons, Robert W. Kneece, Jr., and Jason Kneece (Amber); grandchildren, Coby and Sadie; brothers, James Kneece (Barbara) and Jerry Kneece (Janice); sister-in-law, Elizabeth Kunkle; and several nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, honor Robert Wayne Kneece, Sr., Vietnam veteran and businessman, upon his passing and extend the deepest sympathies to his family and many friends.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Robert Wayne Kneece, Sr.

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