Fredric Allen Knuth

Jun 26, 2026 | Obituaries, Obituaries 2026 | 6 comments

Fredric Allen Knuth, 71, of Prairie Village, Kansas, passed away on June 20, 2026. Born on December 9, 1954, in Atwood, Kansas, Fred lived a life defined by warmth, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to the people he loved.

Fred grew up in Kansas and went on to attend the University of Kansas, where he became a proud member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity and earned his degree. His years at KU ignited a lifelong passion for Jayhawk athletics that never wavered. He married the love of his life, Chris Knuth, and together they built a family rooted in kindness, laughter, and love. As a father to three children and a grandfather to five grandchildren, Fred, known affectionately as “Papa,” was a steady and supportive presence whose encouragement lifted everyone around him.

Fred possessed a rare and genuine gift for making others feel welcome. He made friends wherever he went, greeting strangers with the same warmth he showed those closest to him. Whether at a neighborhood gathering, a charity event, or a casual outing, he went above and beyond to ensure that everyone around him felt comfortable and valued. His friendly spirit and generous nature left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him, even briefly.

A lifelong golfer and devoted sports enthusiast, Fred could often be found cheering on his beloved KU Jayhawks, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Kansas City Royals. His passion for the game, whether on the golf course or in the stands, brought him tremendous joy and connected him with countless friends over the years. Beyond his love of sports, Fred dedicated his time to volunteering with multiple charitable organizations throughout his lifetime, always seeking ways to give back to his community.

A practicing Catholic, Fred drew strength and comfort from his faith. He now rests in the arms of the Lord, reunited with his beloved wife, Christine Knuth; his father, Kenneth Knuth; and his mother, Lee Knuth.

He is survived by his daughter, Lisa (Matt) Heitz; his sons, Kevin Knuth and Ryan (Caitlin) Knuth; his sisters, Lynne Shanks, Becky (Kirk) Bruening, and Lisa Kelley; five grandchildren; Andrew, Grace, Luke, Holland and Braeden; his loving In-Laws, nieces and nephews; as well as a wide circle of friends who will carry his memory on in their hearts.

Fred’s funeral will be held August 8th, 2026 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Prairie Village, KS. Visitation will begin at 10am, with service starting at 11am, followed by a luncheon in Fred’s honor immediately after the service. Additionally, there will be a celebration of life held at The Bar PV from 4-6pm that evening and in honor of Fred, we ask that guests wear KU or KU colored attire.

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Larry Scott

3 months ago

Rest in peace. IH

-1

Joe Donnelly

3 months ago

Fred was one of the good guys. Kind heart, good soul and a wonderful sense of humor. Rest in peace!

Christopher Riggs

3 months ago

Fred was always a kind, gentleman to me while in high school with him. It seems his kindness only continued to grow throughout his life.

Jennifer McMullin

3 months ago

Fred was one of my favorite patients at HyVee Pharmacy! I am very saddened to hear about his passing. He would tease me and call me the “mean girl” but in the most fun loving way! He will be missed! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Karen axford (formerly Potts

2 months ago

Fred always had a smile on his face at work and any other place I ran into him

Harry fiedler

1 month ago

God bless you Fred and Family as your body is gone but your eternal soul lives forever my friend.

Kind Words

Thank you for all your help after Doug's passing. Lara and I felt pretty helpless at that time and you came to our rescue. All my best, Joan

Joan

We deeply appreciate the kindness and support that you've shown us during this difficult time. It will always be remembered by our family.

M. Weber Family

Thank you ladies for making our Father's memorial special. You went above and beyond and helped us feel special during a difficult time.

O'Brien's

You took the worst week of my life and took the best care of our loved one. Thank you for your kind and gentle guidance. May God Bless you in your worthy work.

A. Koch

Thank you both for the patience and understanding on the logistics of BK's funeral arrangements. It was a pleasure to work with you both. My sister, Julie, couldn't have been more pleased. The services you offer are well thought out and executed with compassion.

MHD

Dad has commented several times since mom's passing how her Celebration of Life was such a nice tribute to her and how grateful he was for that process to be handled so smoothly.

Beth W.

You both have exceeded your calling, and I'm so grateful you were there for me.

Marchia

Words will never be enough to properly express our gratitude...Your care for him and your guidance in our hour of need will never be repaid. Thank you, a million times, for you compassion and respectful service.

Nicole

Thank you so much for all of the care and concern you have given our family. We appreciate all of your help in planning the funeral. You did a wonderful job!

The Abram Family

Thank you so much for your compassionate care of our family. You have answered Dad's call to comfort grieving families, and we are so grateful.

Nancy

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Bukeka and Makeda

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Cynthia

You made the whole experience of losing my Dad so much more bearable thank I could have imagined. Thank you so much for everything.

Paula H.

Thanks for making this an easier experience than I could have imagined.

Bill B.

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Amy E.

"A giant THANK YOU for your knowledge, care, concern, suggestions and friendship"

Joyce F.

Thank you again for all of your help, support and encouragement.

Linda S.

I want to thank you and the friend that is making these wonderful white cloths ... whenever I see it it reminds me of a shroud and brings a very pleasant peace.

thank you dear friend

Elaine

I'm Speechless, you are so kind. You made Richard's celebration of Life and awesome experience. Richard and I shared our life together for 45 years and you have put my life in a happier place.
Most Grateful I am, Robert S.

Robert S.

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With much gratitude and love,

Vicki and family

Cathy Boomer has a very calming influence and sense of peacefulness about her, even in the most emotional situations. She handled all the details of my mother's passing and funeral with professional dignity. She was unobtrusive but in control of all the little details and we, as a family, relied on her with immense satisfaction.

Nancy H.

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Eleanor P.

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Mark R.

"We appreciate all that you did to make my mother's visitation simple and elegant. Your staff helped all of our family feel very comfortable. Your place was perfect for honoring and celebrating my mother's life."

Sue and Bernie

"Thank you so very much for the "In Loving Memory" book. It was truly a lovely meaningful gift for us. And, thank you again for making Michael's final tribute a beautiful lasting memory for us."

Genanne D.

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Ralph F.

I want to thank you, on behalf of my family, and father in particular, beginning with your presence with us the night of mom's passing in her room. You were a calming presence throughout. Your funeral space is lovely and uplifting. It was, indeed, the perfect space for such a somber, but also celebrated gathering. Thank you for your guidance throughout.

Rebecca B.

"Thanks so much for all you did to make our son's service so beautiful so that we could touch the lives of many through him."

Jim and Leslie

"Thank you so very much for all the work you did for Papa. He was the neatest man and I'm so lucky to have had so much time with him. We are grateful."

Cherlyn

"At such a difficult time, it was comforting to have your respectful and tender care of my mom and her arrangements. The service was a beautiful end to her journey to Heaven. You truly have a unique gift."

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Brian O.

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Anne E.

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Debbie Brown

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Andre Player | Vice President Anthem Media Group