Thomas "Knowles" Robertson Passed away January 22, 2006 in Napa at the age of 77.

He was born February 5, 1928 to Bert and Mary Evelyn (Knowles) Robertson in Ygnacio, Colorado. At the age of 14, Knowles joined the Merchant Marines and spent WWII sailing the South Pacific. During the Korean War, Knowles joined the Air Force, serving one tour of duty with CONUS in Washington State, after which he received an honorable discharge.

During the 1950s he worked at various radio stations in several capacities, and in the early 1960s he was an anchorman on a local network affiliate. Knowles became a street reporter during the turbulent late 1960s, covering events such as the riots at UC Berkeley and the Black Panther movement. He later became a Radio News Director at KNEW/KSAN in Oakland, where he was employed for approximately 20 of the over 35 years he worked in electronic journalism. .

In addition to his radio experience, Knowles was a model during the '50s and 60s, performing in commercials for various products ranging from cigarettes to motor homes. He was also a California historian and freelance writer. PG&E included his writings on the origins of California place names on the enclosure sent with the monthly bills during the 1970s. These vignettes were also aired on local radio. Knowles was a member of numerous journalistic and broadcast organizations including, NorCal RTNDA, AFTRA, SAG and Broadcast Legends. .

In addition to his love of journalism, Knowles also loved the "good life." His early years sailing the seas with the Merchant Marines inspired his passion for travel. His favorite method of travel was cruise ship - and the more days at sea (fewer in port) the better. Through the years Knowles has taken so many cruises, he has traveled his way around the world by sea and visited many an exotic port. .

Following the death of his wife of 27 years, Rita, Knowles began taking cooking lessons and became quite the gourmand. His passion for travel is seconded by his love for and preparation of good food. .

Knowles is survived by his two daughters (and sons-in-law): Katie (George) Botsford of Orlando, FL; and Duffy (Ron) Teague of Indianapolis, IN; and six grandchildren: George, Caitlin, and Connor (Katie) Botsford; and Max, Sam and Kylie (Duffy) Teague. .