Modern Salon
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Erik of Norway's Erik Knudsen Passes

Erik Knudsen was a salon owner, school owner and an Aveda distributor.

by Staff
July 19, 2023
Erik of Norway's Erik Knudsen Passes

Erik Knudsen, founder of Erik of Norway. 

1 min to read


Erik Knudsen passed away on July 7, 2023 after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.

Along with his late wife, Carol, Knudsen was an accomplished entrepreneur with a career that included numerous Erik of Norway salon locations, retail experience centers, and Aveda institutes. The Knudsens also handled Aveda distribution for Wisconsin and Illinois for more than 25 years. And, he served as a board member of Intercoiffure Canada America.

Ad Loading...

Knudsen lived his life to the fullest and never missed an opportunity to gather with friends and family. "Everyone, I mean, everyone loved him even if they had only met for a brief time," says son Chris Knudsen, who with his wife Jenny own Mane Attraction Salon in Phoenix, Arizona. "That was his legacy… he made everyone he met feel like the most important person in the room. He remembered your name, sent you flowers and hand-written cards for every occasion. He was truly one of a kind. He will be missed by many and loved by everyone."

Knudsen is survived by his sons Alex (Julie), Chris (Jenny) and his grandchildren (Harper, Miles, Camila and Mason). 

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Erik’s name to: tgen.org

Originally posted on Salon Today

More In The Know

Ad Loading...
colorful geometric patterns and text that reads 'Salon Today 2026 Technology Guide'
In The Know|Articles|Sep 2, 2026

Salon Today 2026 Technology Guide

As technology evolves at an accelerated rate, you want to make sure you have the best in your business toolkit to help you grow sales, motivate your team, communicate with your current and future clientele, and streamline your managerial tasks. The 2026 SALON TODAY Technology Solutions Guide is designed to help you navigate today's growing landscape of salon and spa technology. In this guide, you'll find a curated look at more than 50 of the latest software platforms, digital solutions, and innovative features to help you compare options and identify the best fit for your business.

Ad Loading...
A man cuts a man's hair
In The Know|Articles|Aug 6, 2026

In Dubai, Clients Visit the Salon Every Week. Here’s What That Market Can Teach You

In Dubai, a salon visit isn’t an appointment. It’s a weekly routine, and clients can spend $800 to $1,400 a month on it, according to Gaurav Tripathi of MADI International. On October 6-8, 2026, the market behind those numbers opens its doors as Beautyworld Dubai marks its 30th edition at the Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing together distributors, brands, stylists and salon owners from all over the world.

Sponsored by BeautyWorld Dubai

Ad Loading...