Richard Alfred Knechel

Richard Alfred ("Al") Knechel, 70, of Pottstown, passed away after a long illness on October 19, 2023. He was the loving husband of Marian (Liebmann) Knechel with whom he shared 46 years of marriage. A longtime resident of Montgomery County, Al and Marian raised their family in the Collegeville/Phoenixville area.

Born on November 8, 1952, in Doylestown, he was the son of the late Rose Ethel (Rumer) and Harvey Richard Knechel. Following graduation from Central Bucks High School West (class of 1970), Al received a B.A. from Temple University's School of Communications in Radio, TV, and Film.

Al was a well-respected leader in educational technology sales and marketing in the K-12 market. He was experienced in senior executive management, sales training, and the consultative sales process. He sincerely loved his work and believed he impacted learning success for all students who had access to the technology he represented.

A man of faith, Al attended Chalfont United Methodist church through college and met Marian when he was 10. They were married 15 years later. After marriage they were active at Brightmoor Tabernacle in Southfield, MI, teaching Sunday School. Upon their return to PA, they became long time members of Victory Church, now located in Audubon, PA.  Al was recognized as a Godly leader and servant. He was on the Board for over 25 years. Facilitating Life Groups on finance, membership, Experiencing God, and for men, he demonstrated faithfulness to the Lord and his family to hundreds of congregants. In addition, he led ushering, parking, and outreach ministries.

A passionate Philadelphia sports fan, Al was present when the Phillies clinched the 1980 World Series and on Broad Street for the 2008 World Series Parade. An avid gardener, Al admired the beauty of Longwood Gardens during the Christmas season on multiple occasions. In addition, he enjoyed many family vacations to Ocean City, NJ, without his watch!

In addition to his wife, Al is survived by four children, Jason Richard Knechel (Melissa McIntosh), Joel Alfred Knechel (Emily Krombach), Alycia Jane Knechel, and Andrew Thomas Knechel (Chelsey Silverwood); eight grandchildren; his brother, Brent Stuart Knechel and his sister, Audrey Knechel Michener (Dennis); and three nephews. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Janine Leah Knechel.

A memorial service for family and friends will be held at Victory Church (2650 Audubon Road, Audubon, PA  19403) on November 3rd at 5pm. Doors will open at 3pm for a receiving line for family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in his name to Lewy Body Dementia Association (lbda.org/donate) or Victory Church for Missions Offering (getvictory.net/give).

Huff & Lakjer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.