Peter Knef Obituary

Peter Ferdinand Knef

Jun 29, 1950 - Oct 10, 2024

Fremont

Peter Ferdinand Knef, 74, recently of Fremont and Clyde, and formerly of Sandusky, passed away Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, at Countryside Manor, Fremont, after a lengthy illness.

He was born June 29, 1950 in Long Branch, New Jersey. He was adopted by Petra and Ferdinand Knef of Brielle, New Jersey.

He graduated from Perkins High School in 1968. He attended Firelands and Bowling Green State University, graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science & Political History in 1973. He married Joan Nielsen on Jan. 26, 1974, at St. Stephen UCC.

Pete was a people-person and lifelong manager. He volunteered with AMVETS Baseball, Boy Scouts, chess tournaments, and a variety of youth soccer leagues. He worked for the Erie County Detention Home, New Departure-Hyatt, Periodical Publishers, R.L. Polk Co., Waldock Investments, Erie Metro Housing, Securitas, and Parkvue as a bus driver. He also worked at Cedar Point for Jungle Larry's Safari and as a train operator.

He enjoyed festivals & parades, holidays, and family events. He was a lifelong Cleveland and Ohio State sports fan. Playing cards, strategy games, camping, fishing, and being outdoors were his favorite pastimes. He delighted in playing church softball, golf, bowling, and ice hockey in his younger days.

Pete is survived by his daughter, Amy (Ben) Williams, of Lima; sons, Erik Knef of Green Springs, and Craig (Chris) Knef of Ballston Spa, New York; grandchildren, Clara and Alex Williams; and brother-in-law, Tom Gorman of Asheville, North Carolina.

In addition to his parents; Peter was preceded in death by his wife, Joan, in 2021; sister, Barbara Gorman; and beloved dogs.

Cremation has taken place. Friends and family may gather 12-2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, 2001 Columbus Ave., Sandusky.

Condolences may be shared online at toftfuneralhome.com.