Richard Knerr, Hula Hoop and Frisbee Creator Dies at 82

Richard Knerr, cofounder of Wham-O, has died at the age of 82. Though Knerr's name was not well known, his toys, including the Hula Hoop and Frisbee have been popular to children and adults leaving long lasting, happy memories.

In 1948, Knerr and his friend Arthur Melin founded their new company Wham-O after running a used car store together. The business started out slow with the production of slingshots made from the ends of orange crates. The business' name derived from the sound the slingshots made.

After placing ads and mail orders, the company soon began booming as orders started pouring in. Nearly 10 years later, in 1957, the Hula Hoop and Frisbee were introduced to the market. After the introduction of the Hula Hoop, an idea originating from children in Australia, who used a bamboo ring, sold more than 25 million in four months. Knerr and Melin's wives promoted the toy throughout the United States.

After purchasing a plastic flying disc named the "Pluto Platter" from Fred Morrison, Wham-O redesigned the product and called it a Frisbee. Sales again escalated for Wham-O. Many other toys came into play soon after, including the Super Ball. According to Wikipedia, Wham-O tried to market a product called "Instant Fish," which included fish eggs that would hatch overnight and an aquarium. They had to discontinue the idea due to the shortage of eggs.

In 1982, Knerr and Melin sold their business. Kransco purchased it but the company ran into the ground. It was then purchased by Mattel. Mattel continues to produce the Hacky Sack, Hula Hoop and Frisbee.

Richard Knerr passed away on Monday, January 14, 2008 of a stroke. Survived by his wife, three children from a former marriage, eight grandchildren and two stepchildren Knerr will be remembered for the fun that he placed in homes throughout the world. From his struggles at the beginning of his business venture to having millions of his toys in homes, Knerr left behind lasting memories.

The Hula Hoop and Frisbee continue to put smiles on children's faces as well as adults. Recently attending a Halloween party, the Hula Hoop was used for laughs as none of the participants could keep it going like they did as kids! As a child, the hula hoop was popular in my school as well as my home. There were always competitions as to who could last longer. It was great exercise too! Some people even use Hula Hoops to train their dogs. The Frisbee is seen in parks, on beaches, at homes and has even become a great toy for mans best friend - dogs.