DES MOINES, Iowa —

Bill Knapp, a visionary businessman who founded Iowa Realty and Knapp Properties, died on Saturday at the age of 99 , leaving a lasting impact on Des Moines.

"It was very sad to hear. I mean, Bill is a legacy," said Connie Boesen, mayor of Des Moines.

John Dunn, Iowa Realty general manager, reflected on Knapp's life, saying, "In my opinion, he's still Bill. He pitched the perfect game 99 years."

Knapp was known for his contributions to the city's development, including the creation of the Knapp Center at Drake University, which bears his name. He once joked about the honor, saying, "Being called the dog house and the dog pound, the Knapp Center didn't sound too bad."

Knapp founded Iowa Realty in 1952 and later established Knapp Properties. His passion for developm

See Full Page