Richard John Kneidl Jr., affectionately known as "Dick," passed away peacefully in the summer of 2025, at the age of 103. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, during the summer of 1922, to Richard John Kneidl Sr. and Ethal Price Kneidl, Dick's life was defined by service, devotion to his family, and an enduring sense of humor.

Dick's deep love for his family shone through in the joy he found in spending time with his children. Even in his final days, he often recalled the cherished memory of playing "airplane" with them—a moment that remained dear to him throughout his life. He was particularly devoted to his late wife, Mary Margaret Shawhan, whom he married on September 11, 1943, in Midlothian, Texas. Together, they built a life full of love, adventure, and travel—experiences they treasured during their retirement years. Mary preceded him in death in 2012.

Dick was a lifelong member of the Presbyterian Church, where he attended services regularly and served as a faithful deacon and elder. He pursued his education at Sterling College in Sterling, Kansas, a college with deep ties to the Presbyterian Church. He continued to attend weekly services at the Presbyterian Church in Nampa, Idaho with some of his family members up until the final months of his life.

In 1942, Dick enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. After completing pilot training at Ellington Field, Texas, in February 1944, he became a flight instructor in San Antonio. Over the course of his service, Dick flew a variety of aircraft, including the C-60, C-47, and AT-7. After the war, he helped certify military pilots on the C-47/DC-3, enabling their transition into civilian airline roles.

Dick's career in aviation spanned several decades, beginning with Empire Airlines, where he piloted the DC-3. As the airline merged with West Coast Airlines and became Air West, later Hughes Air West, and ultimately Republic Airlines, Dick continued to soar. As a captain for Republic Airlines, he accumulated over 33,000 flight hours before retiring in 1982 at the age of 60. He was a 2 time Board of Directors for Airline Pilot Association.

Music was a significant part of Dick's life. He sang in various choirs throughout his adult life, often within the church and alongside his wife. He also enjoyed playing the organ at home, sharing his love for music with family and friends. For Dick, music was an expression of his faith and a constant source of joy. In retirement, Dick and Mary became passionate members of the Airstream Club, traveling across the United States on countless adventures. Dick's love for exploration and community led him to serve a term as National Vice President of the Airstream Club, where he forged many lasting friendships. Dick was also an avid swimmer and being in the water was one of his favorite activities. For much of his adult life, he had access to a pool—whether at home or in his neighborhood—and he shared it joyfully with his loved ones. To stay active, Dick swam laps into his nineties.

Dick's legacy lives on through his four children: Margaret McKee, Laura Kneidl, Richard G. Kneidl, and Willard Kneidl. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. Dick will be fondly remembered for his captivating storytelling and, above all, his infectious sense of humor. His love for telling jokes has been passed down through the generations, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to bring smiles to the faces of his loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Mission Aviation Fellowship, an organization close to Dick's heart, at https://www.maf.org.

Dick's life was a testament to his unwavering love and commitment to his family. While he will be deeply missed, his spirit and laughter will never be forgotten.