Eric Ernest Knesel

Eric Knesel ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by James Funeral Home on Mar. 2, 2026.Huntersville - On March 19, 1972, Lynn Knesel and Ernest Knesel Jr. welcomed their first child into the world: Eric Ernest Knesel, a tiny human destined to test the limits of patience, speed, and school attendance. As a teenager, Eric had two main hobbies: avoiding class and perfecting the art of avoiding class. Running away from school wasn't just a phase, it was a lifestyle. Meanwhile, the vice principal seemed to have a sixth sense for Eric's disappearing acts.His poor sister was originally appointed Head of Eric Tracking Operations, responsible for confirming he actually made it to class. At first, she took the job seriously: clipboard, mental checklist, and all the sighs included. But as the years rolled on and Eric treated attendance like a polite suggestion, she gradually retired from the position. After all, you can't confirm someone's in class when they absolutely, positively are not. Then came the legendary station wagon incident. The vice principal caught Eric red-handed, cruising down Benjamin Parkway in the old family station wagon. The mission was clear: Page High School wasn't the real destination, it was a highly classified rendezvous with Lover Girl. Academic rules didn't apply; romantic outlaw mode was in full effect.Back at Weaver Center, Eric and Cheryl were both in the German Club. One day, after a meeting, Eric, already feeling heroic, appeared out of nowhere to keep Cheryl company because her dad hadn't picked her up. True to form, he didn't ask her name. Mystery? Check. Charm? Double check. At another meeting, Cheryl brought her Oma's cookies. Eric, never one to shy away from challenges, grabbed one and ran straight to the water fountain, the cookie was practically sucking all the moisture out of his mouth. "Are you trying to kill me?" he wheezed, leaving everyone in a mix of horror and awe. After the Page Grimsley swim meet, Eric was talking with friends when he saw Cheryl. He said hello, started chatting, and then Cheryl's mom appeared. Cheryl took the opportunity to offer Eric her number. "Do you want my number?" Of course he did. Eric, ever the bold adventurer, called that evening. That first date? Eric forgot his wallet at home, but that didn't stop him. He invited Cheryl in while the future in-laws were already at home, and they all shared a lively pizza dinner before heading out to the movies, The Naked Gun.And so Eric Ernest Knesel secured his place in family history: part runaway scholar, part hopeless romantic, full-time legend.Eric attended Lees-McRae College, where he quickly learned that college life came with responsibilities, including doing his own laundry. On more than one occasion, his mother threatened to throw his laundry out the window if he didn't handle it himself. Determined to find a workaround, Eric once tried bringing his laundry home for her to wash, but she wasn't having it and firmly refused. He graduated with a degree in Speech Pathology with a concentration in Deaf Education and soon followed his wife, Cheryl, to Charlotte, NC. Eric and Cheryl were married on June 29th, 1996. They were blessed with two children, Teresa and Alex, who were the center of his world and his greatest accomplishment. He was endlessly proud of them and treasured every moment spent cheering them on, guiding them, and simply being their dad.It was in Charlotte that Eric discovered his passion for the hospitality industry. Starting in a sales position, he worked tirelessly, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues as he rose to Director of Sales and then a General Manager. Eric was loved by everyone he worked with, not only for his leadership, but for the humor and lighthearted energy he brought to every workday. No matter how busy things became, he never missed an opportunity to make someone laugh.Though he built a successful career, Eric's heart always belonged to the mountains in Banner Elk, NC. He loved their beauty, their peace, and the sense of home they gave him, and he dreamed of pursuing his passion in the place he loved most.Eric was also an avid Disney enthusiast, always planning his next magical adventure. A trip to Disney wasn't just a vacation, it was an event. He approached each visit with the excitement of a child. For Eric, Disney represented joy, wonder, and the importance of holding onto your sense of fun, a spirit he carried with him everywhere he went.Eric was a proud member of the Boy Scouts until he aged out at 18, an experience that shaped his lifelong appreciation for leadership, service, and the outdoors. He later shared that passion with his son, Alex, continuing the tradition by serving as Scoutmaster for Alex's troop. Eric was a dedicated and inspiring leader who cherished every opportunity to guide and support the scouts, especially during their many camping trips and adventures. One of his most memorable experiences was a High Adventure trip to the Sea Base Out Island Adventure, where he spent unforgettable time on a remote island alongside his son and fellow scouts. An experience that perfectly reflected his love for mentorship and adventure.Above all, Eric will be remembered for the joy he brought into every room, the laughter he shared so freely, and the deep love he had for his family and friends. He lived with a full heart, worked with dedication, and never lost his sense of humor or sense of perspective. He often reminded those around him with his famous words, "When it's your time, it's your time." His legacy of kindness, leadership, laughter, and living without hesitation will continue in the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.Eric was preceded in death by his father, Ernest Knesel. Survivors include his wife of 29 years Cheryl Knesel; his children Teresa Knesel and Eric A. Knesel; his mother Lynn Knesel, his sister Tami Stephany (Geoff) and his brother Brad Knesel (Jenny) and many nieces and nephews.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, March 16, 2026 11:00am at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 537 NC-16, Denver, NC 2803. Visitation will be held from 10-11am at the church.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Scouting America Mecklenburg County Council, 1410 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28204.James Funeral Home is serving the family.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.