Brian K. Kniceley

“The good ones always leave”

 Brian K. Kniceley, 59, a life-long resident of Lorain, OH, died on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at the Mercy-New Life Hospice Center following a brief illness.  Brian was born on January 19, 1961, the son of the late James L Kniceley and Daralyn K. (nee Graham) Kniceley of Lorain.

Brian is survived by his mother Daralyn, his wife, Rebecca L. (nee Thomas) Kniceley, a son, Alexander R. (Michelle Parise) Kniceley of Cuyahoga Falls, OH, a daughter, Sarah M (Thomas Smith, Jr) Kniceley of Elyria, a brother Barry R. (Deanna) Kniceley of Lorain, three beloved granddaughters, Emilia Kniceley, Madeline Kniceley and Layla Smith as well as a nephew, Mark Kniceley, Aunts, Uncles and cousins.

He was a graduate of Southview High School, class of 1979 and graduated from Ohio University in 1984 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, cum laude.  Brian was a remarkable student at OU.  His ability to bring his thoughts to life and the conviction and care he took with his prints was an inspiration to his fellow students and professors.

In 1994, Brian began what would become a 26-year career with Cedar Point in Sandusky, OH, and later for the corporate division - Cedar Fair.  He began work as a sign painter in the Painters Union and advanced to be a lead Graphic Designer and member of Planning and Design.

Brian designed for all of Cedar Fair’s many parks located across the United States and Canada.  His skills were well respected and resulted in several national awards in competitions across the country.  His designs can be seen around every corner as you enter and enjoy Cedar Point and other Cedar Fair parks.

But Brian knew that creating the guest experience, putting smiles on guest faces and creating memories was more important than just design. Millions of guests have enjoyed Brian’s work, and millions more will for years to come. That’s his professional legacy.

Brian’s great influence was not limited to just graphic design abilities.  He was also respected and admired by his many co-workers who became like family to him. Whether he was working with words, lines, color, or relationships he was a consummate craftsman. He was always generous with his knowledge and skill. 

Of course, Brian was not just his career.  He was a once in a lifetime son, brother, husband, father and G’pa.  His love and knowledge of music, movies and pop culture was truly jaw dropping. He loved midcentury modern design and architecture, traveling, cycling and physical fitness, guitar, reading and even playing Word Stacks, (although he would not admit to that).  He loved to discover new places and try new things. He loved to ‘turn people on” to things they didn’t know about and was always up for a healthy debate or discussion on any subject.  He was extremely funny, intelligent, interesting and secretly lovable. He observed the world around him with a critical and trained eye. He saw potential and beauty in individuals, situations, and objects that others passed by or did not appreciate.

Although he always joked that he didn’t like kids or animals, he was so tenderhearted and devoted to both.  His ability to make his granddaughters laugh was and will forever be unmatched.  They adored him and will miss him terribly as will we all.

For those of us fortunate enough to spend time with Brian, we will miss a wonderful soul who enriched our lives and who was a great companion to both participate and observe this wild rollercoaster ride called life

The family will receive friends and relatives on Thursday, July 2, 2020 from 4-7 p.m. in the Schwartz, Spence, Boyer & Cool Home for Funerals, 11124 W. 5th Street, Lorain.  A private family service will be held on Friday, July 3, 2020.

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