Richard Knepper

Richard “Rick” A. Knepper, 77, of Harborcreek, passed peacefully Saturday, May 3, 2025. Rick was born on October 7, 1947, son of the late Richard and Marigene Spiesman Knepper. He was preceded in death by his late wife of over 50 years, Cheryl.

After graduating from East High School (Erie, PA), Rick served honorably in the United States Coast Guard, a duty he carried with quiet pride throughout his life. Rick then worked for many years and retired from General Electric Central Maintenance, where he built not only a respected career but also lifelong friendships. His strong work ethic and sense of responsibility were hallmarks of the way he approached every aspect of his life.

He was a faithful member of Our Lady of Mercy Roman Catholic Church, where he gave his time and energy to the Knights of Columbus, particularly enjoying helping with their annual golf raffle. He most likely was selling tickets and looking for a donation the day before his death!

A lifelong Cleveland Indians fan, he followed the team faithfully through every season, win or lose. Baseball brought him joy, whether he was watching the game, keeping score, or talking stats with his kids and grandkids.

An avid outdoorsman in earlier years, he enjoyed golf, hunting, and fishing—any reason to be outdoors and in good company and was a member of the SONS (Save Our Native Species) of Lake Erie and Ducks Unlimited. He was a longtime member of the Moose Club, where he loved to socialize, tell stories, and make friends with anyone wanting to chat. He had a special knack for spotting a good deal and took pride in finding bargains, often with a twinkle in his eye.

He was a proud father, never missing a chance to support his children at their sporting events. Whether coaching softball or soccer; rain or shine, he could always be counted on in the stands, often spotted wearing his unmistakable blue rainsuit during inclement weather. That iconic outfit became known as the cookie monster suit and a cherished part of family lore and a symbol of his enthusiastic support.

Rick is survived by his children, Leslie Adrian (Anthony) of Columbia, MO, Rich Knepper of Harborcreek, PA, and Kelly Knepper of Pittsburgh, PA. A proud and devoted father and grandfather, he especially treasured his role as "Papa"—a name he wore with joy and pride to Madison and Isabel Kriegisch, Conner, Chloe, and Braeden Knepper, and Delaney, Luke, and Cole Adrian. His life will be forever cherished by his brothers and sisters, Robin Knepper (Candie), Donald Knepper (Jan), Lorie Craig (Glenn), Scott Knepper (Jeannine), and the late Regina Knepper and Jerry Knepper. His wife’s brothers and sisters became his own and will miss him greatly, Sandy Pettinato (Pat), Laura Myers (Kevin), Alvah Carver (Cathy), and Richard Carver (Kathi). Additionally, he is survived by many nieces and nephews.

The family expresses gratitude for the staff at LECOM Senior Living Center for the excellent care and friendship they provided Rick over the past two years.

Friends may call at the Dusckas Funeral and Cremation Services Harborcreek, 5151 Buffalo Road (at Hannon Rd. in Harborcreek Twp.), on Thursday, May 8th, from 4 to 7 pm and are invited to attend a Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Mercy R.C. Church, 837 Bartlett Road, on Friday, May 9th, at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Knights of Columbus Council 11144 at Our Lady of Mercy Church.