Robert Edward Mcknight

Robert Edward McKnight, 86, of Lafayette, LA passed away Tuesday, November 30, 2021 in Saly Portudal, Senegal.

Mr. McKnight was born in Alexandria, LA.  He was a graduate of Lafayette High School where he was a talented athlete, having won many awards, including Best All Around Athlete, Most Valuable Player, District Best Passing Award and a Track Scholarship to Texas A&M University where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering.  As an A&M Engineering student, he was an active member of the Military ROTC program.  Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army as a 2^nd Lieutenant and within six months, advanced to 1^st Lieutenant.  Mr. McKnight began his civilian career and family life in New Orleans and Lafayette, LA where he worked for Davis Oil and Martin Exploration Company.  He worked and lived in various areas of Africa for thirty years.  His latest thirteen years, for Fortesa International, Inc., currently in Senegal.  He shared his knowledge and experience with young people throughout, helping each to learn a little something new.  For fun, Mr. McKnight loved watching football, was a die-hard A&M fan, enjoyed years of weekend outings for golf with his family and friends and social gatherings.  Mr. McKnight leaves a legacy of talent, education and success for generations to come.

He leaves eight children, Allison M. Peace (Bill) of Lafayette, Robert E. McKnight, Jr. (Tim Hornback) of Victoria, TX, Cathy Wilson of Buford, GA, Steve McKnight of Pass Christian, MS, Melissa Kilner (Brian) of Plano, TX, Mallory McKnight of Miami, FL, Daniel McKnight of Dallas, TX and Christopher McKnight of Dallas, TX; six grandchildren, Evan, Natalie, Dillon, Tyler, Jessica and Jackson and three great-grandchildren.  He also leaves his work family at Fortesa.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie Parker McKnight and Cora Duke McKnight and one brother, George Parker McKnight.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, January 15, 2022 at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, 5495 Elliott Road, Lake Charles, LA 70605.  Monsignor Jace Eskind will officiate.  Interment services will follow at Highland Memorial Park.  Family and friends will gather in remembrance from 10:00 AM until the time of service at the church.