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Fred Knaysi Obituary
He was born in 1951 in Ithaca, New York, the youngest of three sons of Cornell University Professor of Microbiology, Dr. Georges Knaysi and his wife, Adele, who was born and raised in Petersburg. Fred attended Ithaca High School, Cornell University and the VCU Dental School where he was elected President of his senior class. He went on to complete a dental fellowship in Norfolk, Virginia.
He was busy soon after he opened his dental practice in Richmond. His patients were extremely loyal, some receiving dental care from Fred for over four decades. They were drawn to him, as were most people, because of his gentle and generous nature and his penchant for giving high quality care at a reasonable price.
Fred focused on others rather than himself and was always the glue, not just within his own family of five, but also within the larger clan of his two brothers, nieces, nephews and numerous cousins. Consequently, his untimely passing has left a huge void within his family, as well as among his patients, his devoted office team, former dental classmates and his social and business contacts.
Because of his large dental practice and substantial real estate acquisitions, Fred had little time for or interest in traditional hobbies, viewing work as recreation. He was tireless and happiest spending his leisure time working on his dental charts while watching sporting events on television, sitting under an umbrella at his beloved Virginia Beach doing paperwork when he wasn't body surfing and traveling annually with his immediate family to far off destinations. He loved giving extravagant and thoughtful gifts and spent hours shopping for the latest hi-tech presents for loved ones. His greatest gift to all of us was what he had the least of…time.
Fred is survived by his wife of 32 years, Dolores; three sons, George Knaysi III M.D. of New York City, Christopher Knaysi of Rosslyn, Virginia and Bradley Knaysi of Raleigh, North Carolina; as well as his brothers, George Knaysi M.D. (Susan) of Richmond, Va., Edmund Knaysi (Kenna) of Grand Junction, Colorado; his dental team; and his business associate, Kelly Khodr.
Fred's family would like to thank his Richmond medical team, led by Dr. Elke Friedman and Dr. Michael Farrell and medical specialists at the University of Florida, Duke University and Johns Hopkins, for their kind and compassionate care. Despite their best efforts, all available conventional and experimental therapies were unsuccessful in slowing the advance of Fred's disease.
In lieu of any floral tribute, condolences can be made on the Bliley's website (Blileys.com) or donations can be made to the Esophageal Center Action Network, a 501 C3 organization(ecan.org).
A private burial service will occur at Hollywood Cemetery later in the summer.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Fred Knaysi
Sponsored by Bliley's Funeral Home Central Chapel.
Tiffany
July 8, 2024
Dr.Knaysi's name still puts a smile on people' faces. He was a great dentist and an amazing human being. Many times my dental visit turned into a counseling and advice session. Dr. Knaysi genuinely cared for each patient. I felt like family. Continue to rest easy Dr. Knaysi
Mickey Stewart
July 11, 2023
My wife and I miss him very much. He was a wonderful man. He always asked us about our family.
I know he is in Heaven now and smiling down at everyone.
Doris Edwards
June 19, 2023
I'm so sorry to see this he will be missed. I enjoyed visiting this practice he always made sure you were never in pain, just pressure(smile) Thank you family for sharing this man with us, I extend my condolences I'm going to miss him very much.
Betty Nolan
September 6, 2022
Oh my goodness. I did not know of Fred´s illness and passing until today, September 6, 2022, when I received a letter in the mail. Fred was my Dentist from age 18 (1970), until I moved out of the area in 2018. All those years, and I never realized that the Fred was only one year older than I am. He always was wise, kind, and super knowledgeable in all things. My heart aches to think that he had to endure all that is involved with battling esophageal cancer. Fred was such a kind and considerate person. All of those years, I always felt important and special when I came in to Fred´s office. We always shared stories about our kids and lives. Fred was one of a kind, totally caring and gentle. Please know that your loved one made a difference in my life and will always be remembered with fondness, respect, and love.
Michael Hensley
September 2, 2022
So sorry to hear about Dr. Kynasi. My favorite memory of him, was the way he treated our son to put him at ease before an appointment. I can hear him say, "Hey John, been to any good concerts lately?" John wasn't a big concert goer, but it helped to calm him down and take his mind off of the scheduled procedure. I am sure we will send a donation to the cancer fund in his name. M. Hensley
Kelly Rosser
September 1, 2022
I am so shocked and saddened by the news of Dr. Knaysi's passing. I started working for his practice shortly after moving to Richmond. To say he was a kind, thoughtful soul is an understatement. After leaving my job, I continued to be a patient of his for 23 years. My dental appointments were always like a little family reunion for us. He always asked about my family. His pride for his boys was always so obvious. I know that heaven gained an angel. He will be greatly missed. Prayers to his wife, boys, and extended family during this difficult time.
T . Allen
August 29, 2022
So very sorry to hear about Dr. Knaysi. My family and I always enjoyed our visits to his office.
Lisa and Dennis Ponder
August 23, 2022
We are really sorry for the devastating loss of Dr. Knaysi. We were patients of his for over 30 years. He had such a sweet and gentle spirit about him, and he will never be able to be replaced as our dentist or friend. Our hearts go out to Dolores and their sons on the loss of their husband and father. He will be missed more than anyone will ever know. He took care of our teeth as well as our kids and was also seeing to the dental care of two of our grandchildren. We all loved him and will miss him so much.
Saa'dia Douglas and Family
August 20, 2022
Please accept our heart felt condolences. My heart hurts for the loss you all are enduring. I'll pray that your grief will not be as consuming as what I experienced losing my parents. I am in shock that we have lost our beloved family dentist. He loved his family and discussed his wife and sons with love and admiration often over the last 20 years. We had 3 generations trusting Dr. Knaysi. I will miss our talks and his gentle nature. Heaven gained an amazing spirit. With all our love.
Julie Renick
August 19, 2022
I was a patient of Dr. Fred knaysi for over 30 years.
He will be missed prayer with his family.
Angela Griffin
August 17, 2022
I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Knaysi's passing. I have been going to Dr. Knaysi since I was pregnant with my oldest son. That was 28 years ago. He was so dear to me and my family. My heart is broken for him family. He spoke of them often and shared what his son's were doing. My oldest son worked on Dr. Knaysi's cars for him and he was so kind to my son and made him feel like he was part of his family. He is going to be so missed by both of my sons and myself. I had the pleasure of meeting his wife years ago at a fundraiser and I remember how much fun we had with them. Such a beautiful couple. I am praying for his family and send my deepest sympathy to all of his family. Rest in peace Dr. Knaysi. You are certainly going to be missed.
Sandra Roberts George
August 12, 2022
I am so sorry to read this. Dr. Knaysi was my dentist for many years, since the early 1980's, he was a dear man. The community has lost a good man.
Richard Alexander
August 12, 2022
I´ve been a patient off and on for approximately 40 years. I would have still been going the past few years except I got implants and didn´t need Togo any more.
My favorite memory of Fred is that while waiting for him in the dentist chair, he would slip me a Playboy magazine to bide my time.
A good friend and He will be missed by me and my family. 2 of my kids were still his patients.
Malcolm S Page
August 11, 2022
So sorry to hear of Dr Kynasi passing. After reading through all the accomplishments he achieved in his life, it´s no wonder why I was glad to be a patient. Sending thoughts and prayers to all of the family members and hope you hold on to all your memories of his life here on this earth.
Joan Mitchell
August 10, 2022
I am so very, very sorry to hear of Dr. Knaysi´s passing. I went to Dr. Knaysi for years for dental care. He was the absolute best dentist and a wonderful human being. What a great loss for so many. My sincere condolences to his family for their loss and heartache.
Rebecca Dockum
August 9, 2022
My deepest sympathies to the Knaysi family. Fred was not only our family dentist but a friend and former colleague of my father Dr. Milton Boyd. He cared for both of my parents and their dental needs as they aged with his typical kindness, for which we will always be grateful. My children who are now teenagers have known no other dentist other than "Dr. Fred" and they always looked forward to seeing him. We are heartbroken, he was such a special person, he will be greatly missed.
The Fees
August 2, 2022
We were shocked and very saddened by the news. Our whole family has been going to Dr. Knaysi for over 18 years. We enjoyed hearing about his travel adventures and his boys and their successes. We will miss his wittiness, candor, sincere interest in our wellbeing, and mutual love of Cornell. We send our thoughts and prayers to the Knaysi family.
Sarah and Ron Germaine
August 2, 2022
My husband and I have known Dr. Knaysi for about 34yrs. What a wonderful person and friend he was! He was always so kind and fun loving. We will miss him so much. Our prayers go out to his wife Delores and their 3 boys. Our thoughts and prayers to their extended family!
Mary Grace Barrett
July 27, 2022
My sincere sympathy to Mrs. Knaysi and the boys. I just found out today that Dr. Knaysi had passed away on July 11 of cancer. He never mentioned he was ill on any visit and always asked about my son and daughter and the grandchildren. He was a great dentist and dental visits to his office were like visiting a bunch of friends. My prayers are with his family.
Rosalind Burrell
July 25, 2022
He was very kind person.He always asking me about my retirement and I would tell him he needed to retire and he would say maybe later. My thoughts and prayers to the Knaysi family
Freddie Crouch
July 24, 2022
Dr. Knaysi was our dentist for over 30 years! My husband thought a lot of him as well as I did! I saw him about 3 weeks ago and he told me about the cancer. He looked bad then and I told him he should rest! But he said he was improving. My husband passed away in 2015 but I continued. My sincere sympathy for his loved ones! He will be missed by many! He was a wonderful, caring dentist!!
Gladys Powell
July 24, 2022
Doctor knaysi has been my dentist for over 45 years . He was a very caring dentist and a wonderful person,so sorry to hear of his passing he will be greatly missed.
John an Helen Alexander
July 22, 2022
So very sorry to hear of Fred's death! Our condolences to Dolores and the family. I knew Fred for over45 years, first as a student at MCV. then as a colleague, and long time friend. He will be surely missed by family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Lindsay Gilmer
July 20, 2022
I have been going to Dr. Knaysi since the late 80's. I'm deeply saddened by this news. My sincerest condolences go out to his family and his team at his practice. He always remembered to ask what I had been up to recalling the last trip I told him about after 6 months! He was a truly special man! Thank you Dr. Knaysi you will be missed!
Sarah Barnes
July 19, 2022
My condolences to the family of Dr. Knaysi. I was so sadden and it really hurt to hear of his passing. He had been our family dentist since 1996. He was just like family to us. I will really miss him, his service and his generosity. Thank you, Dr. Knaysi!
Lucy and Mike Casey
July 19, 2022
We have known Dr. Knaysi for many years. He has been our family dentist since before we had children and now our grandchildren have been his patients! Words can't express how blessed and grateful we feel to have been a part of his extended family of friends. Dr. Knaysi was "one of a kind." We extend our heartfelt prayers for his wife, children and family.
MWorrell
July 18, 2022
I am so sad to hear the news of Dr. Knaysi. I was a patient of his for a while and every time I saw him: he always asked about my work, my kids, and just life. He was a very caring man. I will really miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and coworkers.
Gary and Rebecca White
July 18, 2022
The passing of Dr. Knaysi is such a terrible loss to everyone who knew him. There will never be another dentist as wonderful. Dr. Knaysi was one in a million! This obituary is a beautiful testament of his life. Our thoughts and prayers to his loving family and associates.
Kim Lewis
July 18, 2022
So sad to acknowledge his passing, but so Happy that I was fortunate to share in his life. From being his patient, his employee, and his friend, Fred was always happy, genuinely caring and very selfless. The stories and great memories will continue to give me a chuckle!! The Knaysi family are all in my thoughts and prayers...as Fred will be truly missed..
Laurie Brugnoli
July 18, 2022
Dr Knaysi has been my dentist and my friend for more than 35 years. He was truly one of the kindest and most thoughtful people you would ever know. Going to the dentist was always a fun visit with lots of stories and laughter. I will miss him so much. My love and sympathies go out to all his family and friends.
Pamela Miles
July 18, 2022
I am so sorry to hear about Dr. Kynasi. I have been a patient of his since I was young. He was a wonderful person as well as a dentist. I will miss him dearly. His laugh made you laugh, Lol. He was a caring person not only about your dental care but your overall well being. There will never be anyone like him. Thank you Dr. Kynasi for all you have done on this earth. To the family may God comfort you and keep you in perfect peace.
Sara street
July 17, 2022
So sorry for your loss. What a thoughtful and caring person. He will be missed.
Michael Chance
July 17, 2022
Thoughts and prayers to Dr Knaysi´ s family and the girls in the office. I always enjoyed Dr Knaysi´ s advice, opinions and wisdom that he doled out freely during my office visits. He made going to the dentist a pleasant experience! I will miss him greatly.
Mary Conner
July 17, 2022
Have had all the most loving Knaysi family in my thoughts and prayers this most sorrowful week. So fortunate to have had fun, always smiling, Fred, Dr. Knaysi as my dentist and great friend for 42 years. Always thinking of others, and he never shared his illness with me at any of my visits. And to his most devoted staff thank you for all your many kindnesses to so many patients/fans whether East or West offices. Kept up with Delores and their precious three sons and happenings (beach trips, taking estate sale finds to Dartmouth, USC, UVA) at all my visits. He was so very proud of each of you.
God Bless
Peggy Hazelwood
July 16, 2022
I have known Dr Knaysi for over 40 years and will miss him very much
Diane Edwards
July 15, 2022
I am greatly saddened to hear of Dr. Knaysi´s death. He was my brother´s best friend back in the days of St. John´s Wood and has been a friend to our whole family his whole life. I will always remember his smiling face and gentle care as my dentist for many years.
Elizabeth Pritchett
July 14, 2022
Dr Knaysi has been my dentist for around 30 years. He was an amazing dentist & a wonderful person. He always made me laugh & was very kind. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. Sending love & prayers to Dr. Knaysi´s wife & children.
Trevor wrayton
July 14, 2022
Dr Knaysi had been my dentist for 30 years and was more a friend than my doctor, such a nice man you could wish to meet, always cheerful and genuinely interested in my welfare, he will be profoundly missed.
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