Richard “Dick” Knoebel, the esteemed president of Knoebels Amusement Resort in Pennsylvania, has passed away at the age of 87. Serving as president from 1988 until he transitioned to president emeritus in 2025, Knoebel dedicated nearly four decades of his life to the family-run park, which has become a cherished destination for visitors from all over.
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The Knoebel family released a heartfelt statement in honour of his memory, declaring, “Dick’s legacy lives on in every laugh, every ride, and every tradition that makes Knoebels feel like home.” They acknowledged his deep affection for the park, its guests, and the team responsible for its upkeep, underscoring his lifelong commitment to the amusement resort.
Knoebel’s youngest son, Brian, who now occupies the role of president, reminisced about his father’s unwavering passion for the park. He noted that Dick would often conclude his visits with a list of tasks that needed attention. “With his last breath, he did everything he could to make Knoebels the greatest destination on earth,” Brian added, emphasizing his father’s relentless dedication to improvement.
Born into the Knoebel family legacy, Dick Knoebel became a pivotal figure in the industry. Throughout his tenure, he oversaw numerous significant enhancements to the park, including the preservation and creation of iconic rides. These included the beloved Phoenix and Twister wooden roller coasters, the innovative Flying Turns wooden bobsled coaster, as well as the Haunted Mansion dark ride and the Black Diamond indoor thrill attraction.
Knoebel’s influence extended far beyond the borders of Elysburg, as he played a vital role in several regional and international amusement park associations. His leadership spanned organisations like Pennsylvania Amusement Parks & Attractions (PAPA) and the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), where he was inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame in 2014, recognising his contributions to the industry.
Tragically, his passing comes during a significant year for the park, which is currently celebrating its centenary. In a recent accolade, Knoebels Amusement Resort was named the top amusement and water park in the United States by TripAdvisor’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards, rising from a third place finish the year prior. Impressively, Knoebels also ranked as the only U.S. park to feature in the top 20 of TripAdvisor’s global listing, clinching the 18th spot.
As the park commemorates its storied history, there are plans to announce memorial services and opportunities for the community to pay tribute to Knoebel’s legacy in the coming days. His impact on the park and the experiences he created will undoubtedly resonate in the hearts of many patrons who consider Knoebels a second home.
In a recent interview, Brian Knoebel highlighted the growth and offerings of the amusement resort, which now boasts an impressive 60 rides, 38 food stands, and a variety of entertainment options, including water slides and games. Additionally, the park features a campground and a nearby golf course, showcasing the expansive and continuously evolving nature of the Knoebels experience.
Dick Knoebel’s enduring contribution to the amusement park industry and the profound connections he forged with visitors will be greatly missed, but his spirit will forever be woven into the fabric of Knoebels Amusement Resort. His legacy is one of joy, family, and community, marking him as a beloved figure in Pennsylvania’s rich history of entertainment.