Richard J. Kuehfus

Tuesday, July 1, 2025 - 15:04

Richard J. Kuehfus

KNOX — Love for his family stood above all for Richard Kuehfus, who was known for his creative and inventive mind. 

He died peacefully in his Knox home, surrounded by his loving family on Monday, June 30, 2025, at the age of 82.

He was born on March 6, 1943 in Buffalo, New York to Herbert and Helen Kuehfus.

“He graduated in 1961 from Cheektowaga Central High School, where he excelled as a four-letter star athlete,” his family wrote in a tribute. “He then worked as a production planner at American Optical while attending night school at Erie Community College.

“Shortly after graduating, he met the love of his life, Patricia Rathmann. They soon married and had four daughters together.

“He followed his passion for automobiles and his love for teaching others shone during his time teaching at the Board of Cooperative Educational Services. His precision to detail was exemplified and recognized by multiple award-winning classic cars.

“His hard work ethic and determination to support his family led him to successfully work for more than 10 years at Merchants Mutual. In addition, he orchestrated the charitable program of donating motor vehicles for financial aid to the Association of the Blind.

“Richard is known for his creative and inventive mind. In 1985, his proficient and extraordinary talent landed him a job in Albany, as vice president of the Auto Placement Center for more than 20 years. During this time, he invented Comsearch, an online site to buy and sell auto parts; this was long before this idea launched into current-day sites such as eBay and Amazon. 

“His love for the Buffalo Bills and beef on weck was talked about in every gathering but his overwhelming love for his family stood above all.”

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Richard Kuehfus is survived by his wife, Patricia Kuehfus, and his daughters, Kellie (Tom) Fox, Jill (Tony) Martin, JoLyn (Jeff) Donlon; along with 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

His second daughter, Kristin Raymond, died before him.

Funeral services will be held at New Comer Funeral Home on Saturday, July 5, for immediate family members only.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice.

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