Annette Robinson Knoepfler

A graduate of Fort Dodge High School, Class of 1954, Annette remained deeply connected to her classmates and proudly attended every class reunion, including her 60th, holding the record for the most consecutive reunions attended. Following high school she enrolled at the University of Iowa, graduating in 1958. During her time there, she was a proud member of Delta Delta Delta sorority and performed as a dancer and piper with the University of Iowa Scottish Highlanders, including an appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show and a nine-week tour of Europe. Following graduation, she began her 40-year career as an occupational therapist.

Annette first met Donald Knoepfler in January 1957 at the Union Station in Omaha (now

The Durham Museum), when they were both on the University of Iowa train bound for the Rose Bowl. They later reconnected by chance years afterward while shopping at Montgomery Ward in Iowa City. That unexpected reunion led to a lasting partnership, and they were married on August 14, 1971.

In 1972, Annette and Donald moved to the Dundee neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska, where they lived for more than 20 years and raised their blended family of eight children, affectionately known as “his, hers, and ours.”

Annette, together with her husband Donald, was a printer of hand-set, limited edition books and co-proprietor of The Buttonmaker Press. Working side by side on 19th-century antique presses, including an 1843 Columbian press, they combined artistry with historical preservation in their craft. They later donated the Columbian to the University of Iowa Center for the Book, where it remains on permanent display in the University’s Main Library. They also donated an antique Albion press to Joslyn Castle in Omaha.

In retirement, Annette and Donald fulfilled a long-held dream by moving to Williamsburg, Virginia, a place they had fallen in love with on their honeymoon. Williamsburg became home for more than 20 years, and Annette fully embraced its history and community. She was an active member of Bruton Parish Church, where she sang in the choir. She also served as a volunteer interpreter with the Jamestown Rediscovery Archaeological Project and as a tour guide in the Williamsburg Historic Area. Her ability to engage and connect with others reflected her skills as a natural storyteller.

When asked how she would like to be remembered, Annette simply replied, “as kind.” Those who knew her would agree that she was that and more, generous with her time, genuinely interested in others, and always ready with a story or a warm smile. Her family often remarked on her ability to make every occasion, big or small, feel special, something she did effortlessly.

Annette is survived by her children: Karl Knoepfler, his wife Janice and children Karlie and Allie, of Omaha, NE; William Doughman and his wife Nancy, of Albertville, MN; Carol Knoepfler of Omaha, NE; James Doughman, his wife Heej Ko and children Ryan and Alexander, of Wilton, CT; Thomas Doughman, his wife Lori and children Mariah and Hannah, of Sherwood, WI; Amy Knoepfler Vinton, her husband Brian and children Margaret and Katherine, of Kearney, NE; Sarah Knoepfler Csanadi-Schwartz, her husband Hartmuth and their child Hennes, of Omaha, NE; and Robert Knoepfler and his children Charles and Rose, of Duluth, MN. She is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends.