Erich A. Knehans, a resident of Estero, Florida, and a summer resident of Lake Wynonah, Pennsylvania, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday evening, January 22nd, 2025. Erich was born on August 28, 1941 in Galveston, Texas, a son of the late Erich Sr. and Margaret Ernestine Catherine (Kuhne) Knehans. He was raised in Nebraska, and attended the University of Nebraska on a football scholarship. He then enlisted in the US Air Force and served overseas from 1961-1965 with the 8th Armament and Electrical Maintenance Squad (TAC). Upon his return home, he completed his undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering from San Jose State University in California, and then went on to earn an MBA at Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey. Erich additionally earned a PhD in Economics and a PhD in Information Technology from Pace University Lubin School of Business in New York. He began his career at AT&T as an engineer and advanced through various domestic and international leadership roles. One of the highlights of his career was his role in leading the deployment of a modern telecommunications network in Iran before the toppling of the Shah. Erich became a Professor of Economics at DeSales University where the students he mentored came to regard him as a close lifelong friend. They also enjoyed his BBQs and lakeside fun. While at Lake Wynonah, Erich served on the Board of Directors as a member, as Treasurer and as President. He enjoyed teaching his beloved granddaughters, Anna and Erika, how to fish for trout at the annual Fish Rodeo. An avid sports enthusiast, he enjoyed basketball, tennis, racquetball and golf in his early years, and after moving to Florida, he especially enjoyed golf and community bocce. In addition to his parents, Erich was preceded in death by a son, Matthew Knehans, and by his siblings, Roderick Knehans, Margaret (Knehans) Hansen, and Cedric (Suds) Knehans.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Cheryl Nabholz and children, Amy Knehans, Hummelstown, PA; Michael Knehans, Boston, MA; and Amanda Knehans, Los Angeles, CA, along with two granddaughters, Anna and Erika Knehans. His siblings, Frederick Knehans, Boise, ID; Caroline (Knehans) Johnson, Laramie, WY; and Patrick Knehans, Boise, ID also survive along with many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral service at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 1185 Summer Hill Road, Auburn at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, January 29th. A viewing will be held from 10:30 -11:30 AM prior to the service. Erich will be laid to rest with military honors at the Summer Hill Cemetery, immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation at www.kidney.org The Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, Pottsville, is providing Erich's family with services during their time of need. You may leave an online condolence at www.schlitzerallenpugh.com