Andrew Gennett, Jr., 88, of Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community died Monday, September 29, 2008 at Deerfield Healthcare Facility.  A native of North Carolina, living most of his life in Asheville, he is son of the late Andrew Gennett, Sr. and Julia Tate Gennett.

     As an eagle scout he received the Silver Beaver award and was past president of the Daniel Boone Council of Boy Scouts of America.  Andrew graduated from the University of North Carolina where he was captain of the boxing team and a Southern Conference Boxing Champion.  He served as Lieutenant Commander in the US Navy during World War II.

     He had a long career in the hardwood lumber business serving as president of the Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturing Association as well as president of the Appalachian Lumbermen’s Club and vice-president of the National Hardwood Lumber Association.  He retired as president of Gennett Lumber Company.  He was also a director of the First Union National Bank Trust Committee.

     Andrew was an avid outdoorsman, he and his wife, Mary, traveled the world pursuing hunting and fishing adventures.  His love of nature led him to work actively as a council member for The Cradle of Forestry and as a member of the North Carolina Board of Conservation and Development during the Sanford Administration.  Andrew’s legacy was that of a woodsman.  His family was instrumental in the foundation of the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. 

     He is survived by his wife, Mary Dallam Gennett; son, Philip Robiou Gennett of Asheville; daughter, Shelby Gennett Cloud of Atlanta, Georgia; four grandchildren, Sarah Robiou Gennett, Philip Andrew Gennett, Katherine Bell Cloud, and Jessica Rose Cloud; and several nieces and nephews.

     Andrew was a devoted and generous husband, father and grandfather and was loved by all who knew him.  His family and friends will miss him deeply.

     A memorial service will be held 3:00PM, Saturday, October 4, 2008 at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Charlotte Street.

     In lieu of flowers memorials may be in memory of Andrew Gennett to the Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community for the Resident Assistance Fund, 1617 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, NC 28803.