Eric Knuutila Life story @NCThunderwolves https://t.co/I1ObILgRAb
— armdrag.com (@wnywrestling) March 10, 2026
Eric Knuutila, also known as Coach K, 79, of the Town of Pendleton, NY, SUNY Niagara’s first wrestling coach and legend, passed away unexpectedly on March 5, 2026, while with the team at the NJCAA championships in Iowa. Born on February 11, 1947 in Ithaca, NY, he was the son of the late Emil and Vivian (Verguson) Knuutila and the loving husband of the late Linda C. (Countryman) Knuutila, whom he married on March 15, 1969. She predeceased him on December 20, 2018.
Eric started his athletic career at Ithaca High School, where he was a three letter winner. Following high school, he proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, during the Vietnam War, from June 29, 1966, until his honorable discharge on April 10, 1969. After Eric’s service, he wrestled at Corning Community College and then moved on to the University at Buffalo and wrestled for legendary coach, Ed Michael. Eric started his coaching career at Niagara Community College (SUNY Niagara) and coached there for 53 years. He has been inducted into The Upstate New York Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, the Western New York Wrestling Coaches' Association's Hall of Fame, the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame, SUNY Niagara Hall of Fame, Region III Hall of Fame, NYS Collegiate Hall of Fame and the NJCAA Hall of Fame. Eric was also a coach for SUNY Niagara’s golf team for 16 seasons. He was an avid golfer, achieving 2 hole-in-ones and also had a passion for traveling, visiting all 50 states and many countries. Eric was Professor Emeritus of Physical Education at SUNY Niagara. He was a devout Christian and child of God, worshiping with his family at Pendleton Center United Methodist Church.
Above all else he was a proud father and grandfather and is survived by his loving children, Kristin Knuutila and Jason (Kimberly) Knuutila; his adored grandchildren, Allyson, Matthew, Aaron, Lucas and Jillian; brother, Robin (Judy) Knuutila; one sister, Carol (late Tony) Ciaschi; brother-in-law, Steve (Cindy) Countryman; sister-in-law, Nancy (Al) Cochrane and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides his parents and wife, he was predeceased by his grandsons, Christian Knuutila and Levi Alverson; two brothers, Ronnie (late Joyce) and Larry (Joyce).
All are welcome to gather for visitation on Saturday, March 14th, from 12-4 p.m., at SUNY Niagara in the Gymnasium, 3111 Saunders Settlement Road, Sanborn, NY, where Eric’s funeral service, concluding with Military Honors, will follow visitation at 4:00 p.m. Prayers of committal and interment in Acacia Park Cemetery will be held privately with his family. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Fund, 3785 South Park Avenue, Blasdell, NY 14219.
Eric’s family has entrusted his care to the Goodlander family. Share condolences and memories at GOODLANDERCARES.com.