Funland Mourns the Loss of Co-Founder Al Fasnacht: A Life of Dedication and Joy

A Legacy of Laughter and Family

Funland and the Rehoboth Beach community are mourning the loss of Allen “Al” Fasnacht, co-founder of the beloved boardwalk amusement park. Fasnacht passed away peacefully at the age of 96, surrounded by his family. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of joy, hard work, and community connection will endure for generations to come.

For more than 60 years, Fasnacht was a guiding force at Funland. From painting and cleaning to greeting guests and ensuring every visitor had a memorable experience, he dedicated his life to making Funland a place where families could come together and make lasting memories. His commitment to affordable, family-friendly entertainment was unwavering, and his presence was felt in every corner of the park.

From Humble Beginnings to a Rehoboth Beach Institution

Born in 1928 in Derry Township, Pennsylvania, Fasnacht’s journey into the amusement park industry began in 1956 when his family purchased Willow Mill Park in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. In 1962, they took a leap of faith, purchasing the former Sports Center in Rehoboth Beach and transforming it into Funland. With hard work and passion, Fasnacht helped shape Funland into one of the most cherished amusement parks on the East Coast.

His contributions to the amusement industry were recognized in 2020 when he was inducted into the Pennsylvania Amusement Parks and Attractions Hall of Fame. But for Fasnacht, the true reward was seeing families return year after year, sharing in the joy of the park he helped build.

More Than Just an Amusement Park Owner

Fasnacht was more than a businessman—he was a mentor, a leader, and a friend to many. His quiet dedication and humility left a lasting impact on everyone he met. Employees remember him as a hands-on boss who never asked anyone to do a job he wouldn’t do himself. Whether managing waste or repainting a bench, no task was too small for Fasnacht. His work ethic and kindness set the standard for what Funland represents today.

“He worked right alongside us,” recalled former employee Ron Murphy, who worked at Funland in the 1970s. “Best job I ever had, best employer I ever had. And he’s truly going to be missed.”

Fasnacht’s love for his community extended beyond Funland. He was an active member of the Hershey First United Methodist Church, a dedicated Scout leader, and a wrestling official for NCAA and PIAA matches. His impact stretched far beyond Rehoboth Beach, touching lives in Pennsylvania and beyond.

A Life Well Lived

Fasnacht’s influence at Funland spanned four generations, with his family continuing to run the park and carry on his values. Even in his 90s, he remained an integral part of Funland’s daily operations, embracing simpler tasks in his later years but never stepping away entirely.

His great-nephew, Ian Curry, described him in three words: “Humble, practical, and caring.”

“He might not physically be here, but everything that he kind of embodied and what he taught us and what he exemplified—you can see it here when people come to visit us,” Curry said.

As Funland prepares to open for the season on Mother’s Day weekend, the park will surely feel different without Fasnacht’s presence. However, his spirit lives on in every ride, every smiling face, and every family that continues the tradition he helped create. The Fasnacht family has yet to determine how they will honor him this summer, but his impact will forever be woven into the fabric of Funland.

Saying Goodbye

A visitation for Fasnacht will be held on April 3 at Hoover Funeral Home in Hershey, Pennsylvania. A Celebration of Life service will take place on April 4 at Hershey First United Methodist Church. He will be laid to rest privately, surrounded by family.

Fasnacht leaves behind a legacy of joy, kindness, and unwavering dedication to family and community. His memory will continue to bring light to those who knew him and to every child who steps into Funland for years to come.

For those who wish to express their condolences, sending flowers is a meaningful way to honor Al Fasnacht’s memory. Please Click here.