Andrew J. Albertson

Andrew J. Albertson, 90, passed away Thursday, June 21, 2001, at his home and surrounded by his family. Andy had been a resident of Asheville since 1986 and was a member of First Baptist Church. Andy was born September 30, 1910 to Professor Andrew J. and Ida Clark Albertson of Crossville, Tennessee. His family moved to Florida where he grew up in Miami. After graduating from University of Cincinnati, Andy began his career in Miami with Eastern Air Lines. He was honored by Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker on his 25th year and by Col. Frank Borman at his 40th year retirement celebration. Andy was accomplished in his many hobbies. At the age of 15, he built his own ham-radio and was licensed W4FP. During WW II he gave his radio to the US Navy. He remained an operator until age 85 licensed as N4TZQ. Andy was also an artist and prize-winning photographer, President of Eastern Air Lines Camera Club and Miami’s 8MM Camera Club. Most important Andy was a devoted husband, beloved father, grandfather and brother. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Frances Allison Albertson; his son, Bob Albertson and his wife Gail of Orlando, Florida; his daughter, Cheryl Albertson Rukstele and her husband Ray of Las Vegas, Nevada; his grandchildren, Andy Albertson of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Rob Albertson of Austin, Texas, and Christina Rukstele of Ann Arbor, Michigan; and an “adopted” granddaughter and neighbor Marcelle Daniel; one sister, Ida Wheeler of Gainesville, Florida and brother-in-law Carr Allison of Mill Spring. The celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, June 24, at Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue in Asheville. The family will receive friends at 1:00 PM Sunday preceding the celebration at the funeral home. Graveside remembrance will be held at 4:00 PM at Cane Creek Baptist Church on Highway #9 in Lake Lure Township. The family will provide mini-bus transportation to and from Groce Funeral Home for Graveside Rites.