Darrell Knopfel

Darrell Kane Knopfel, age 52, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, February 4, 2022, at his residence. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa on March 14, 1969. He was the loving, dedicated father to Gracie Mae Knopfel. He was the son of Donald and Alice Knopfel of Pittsburgh, PA. Brother of Dawn Ann (Bobby) Wilson. Uncle to Danielle (John) Cook. Great Uncle to Trevor, RJ, and Letti Cook. Grandson of Charles and Elsie Knopfel and Carl and Annabelle Cook. Nephew of Darrell and Joan Knopfel, Charlene (Crystal Kochka) Knopfel , Donald and Susie Colchagie, and Roy and Carole Hartman. Cousin to Darcy (Jeff) Kovacs, Dara (Will) Roberts, Drew (Kathy) Knopfel, Debbie (Chuck) Wetmore, Donnie (Lisa) Colchagie, Jimmy (Jane) Hartman, and Laura Hartman. Former husband to Leanne Roberts.

He was a 1987 graduate of Plum High School. He went on to earn a degree in Hotel Restaurant Management from Mercyhurst University in 1992. He excelled as a student athlete and made many life-long friends through high school and college. Darrell’s love for sports carried on throughout his life as an avid fan of all Pittsburgh teams. He donned the Black and Gold regularly.

Darrell went on to become the General Manager of Riverside Golf Course Restaurant and Banquet facility in Cambridge Springs, and Shakespiere’s Restaurant on the Erie Bayfront before moving into Pharmaceutical Sales for TEVA from 2004 until 2015.

He saw his lifelong dream of being part of a small quaint dining establishment come to life when he helped reopen Sneaky Pete’s doors in 2016. He became the heart and soul of the welcoming speakeasy, creating one of a kind charcuterie boards, pairing dinners, custom menus, and a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Darrell very much enjoyed his time as the consulting chef and catering partner at the Edinboro Hotel. He was an enthusiastic supporter and advocate for independent restaurants and small businesses.

Darrell’s daughter, Gracie Mae, was the light of his life. Time spent with her made everything in his world even better. Ultimately, bringing joy to others brought Darrell the most happiness in life. He never met a stranger, was a connector of people, and always took the time to authentically talk and relate to others.  The best times were spent with friends and family sharing stories and laughter over a well-cooked meal, one preferably prepared with his own hands. Darrell’s secret ingredient though was quite simple…Love…always Love.  

Friends may call at Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Service at West Ridge, 3801 W. 26^th St. on Wednesday from 2-4 and 5-8 pm and are invited to a service there on Thursday at 10 am.  The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/BurtonQuinnScott/

Family requests that all CDC guidelines be followed, including wearing masks.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family in care of the funeral home.

Condolences can be sent to www.BurtonQuinnScott.com.