Robert Davey Venner Jr.

Robert Davey Venner, Jr.,
of Lake Junaluska, N.C.
Robert Davey Venner, Jr., 73, of Lake Junaluska, passed away Monday, August 18, at Mission St. Joseph's Hospital in Asheville. A native of Endicott, N.Y., Bob was the son of the late Robert and Ernestine Venner. He attended Union-Endicott High School and Lafayette College. He was an engineer with IBM until his retirement in 1993. He also served in the U.S. Army in Korea. Bob was devoted to his family and friends. He never met a person he didn't like. He was a dedicated Boston Red Sox and Lafayette College fan. Bob also dedicated his life to the care of animals, whether his own or others. He worked tirelessly to help all animals. He was co-chairman of the Francis Fund that assists injured pets. Bob was also involved with Big Brothers and Big Sisters. He loved driving his red 1969 XKE Jaguar in the Christmas parade every year. Bob was the recipient of the NC Governor's Award for Volunteer Services. Bob leaves behind his beloved wife, Billie Hertel Venner, Lake Junaluska; a sister, Jacqueline Keenan (Steve) and her children, Courtney and Kerry (Kathleen, Kaitlyn and Kyra). He was predeceased by a brother, John Courtney Venner. He also leaves a niece, Vaughn Crawford-Greene (Cory); and grand niece, Teagan, and nephew, Jonathan Crawford.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Francis Fund, P.O. Box 155, Hazelwood, N.C. 28738; or to Make-A-Wish Foundation, P.O. Box 925, Lake Junaluska, N.C. 28745. There will be no services but memorial tributes can be left online at www.garrettfuneralsandcremations.com.