Charles Robert Knoeber, 77, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away on April 27, 2025.
Born on February 14, 1948, in Denver, Colorado; Charles was the son of George and Eleanor Knoeber and grew up in Richland, Washington. A lifelong learner and gifted teacher, he completed his undergraduate studies at Washington State University before earning a Ph.D. in economics from UCLA. Charles went on to serve as a professor of economics at North Carolina State University for over 40 years, where he inspired generations of students with his insight, humor, and passion for teaching.

Charles also served in the National Guard, demonstrating a strong commitment to both his country and community.

A man of quick wit and endless curiosity, Charles delighted in word games, puns, and clever turns of phrase. He was a devoted fan of college sports and took special joy in anything his grandchildren pursued. Above all, he was a born father and grandfather—steadfast, loving, and proud of his family beyond measure.

Charles’ sister Cathy recalls that on her 10th birthday, Charles offered to let her hang out and do "boy stuff" like fishing and shooting hoops. It was a special day for just the two of them without other boys around to complicate things.

Charles was a compassionate father. When his daughter Carrie found herself at the end of a relationship and feeling uncertain about the future, she remembers that her dad dropped everything! Within 24 hours, he had arranged for his classes to be covered by a colleague, rented a Uhaul truck, and drove hundreds of miles to rescue her without judgement or anger.

Known for being a patient man and slow to anger, Charles nearly met his match in his son Kenn. Kenn has such fond memories of going on Indian Guide trips with his dad, and one trip really stands out. It was the year that Charles clocked him with a paddle when all other attempts to mitigate behavior had failed. This highly out of character reaction only proved what a handful Kenn could be to which he concedes, stating, “even Jesus himself would’ve decked me when I was eleven.”

These, and so many more wonderful memories will continue to be cherished by his beloved wife and best friend, Linda Knoeber; his daughter, Carrie Hughston, who adored him; his wonderful grandchildren, Clayton, Campbell, and Wes Hughston; and Kenn Knoeber, who is honored to be his son. He is also survived by his sisters, Marty Jensen and Cathy Knoeber and many friends, colleagues, and former students whose lives he touched.

Charles was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Knoeber.

His legacy of kindness, intellect, and joyful humor lives on in all who had the privilege to know him.