John Sumner Anderson

John Sumner Anderson, 94, of Asheville, died peacefully at the John F. Keever Solace Center, surrounded by angels on February 12, 2017. John was born May 11, 1922 in Asheville to the late Professor Charles B. Anderson and Lela Sumner Anderson. In addition to his parents, John was also preceded in death by his wife, Ruby Lee "Arel" Anderson, and sister, Nancy Downton (Charlie). John was a flight engineer for Pan American World Airways for 40 years. At the pinnacle of John's career, he was Pan American's Director of Flight Engineering. After retiring from Pan Am, John spent an additional 13 years as the Chief Flight Engineer for Tower Air. In addition to his career, John's passions included photography, automobiles and, of course, his family. John is survived by his daughter Dixie Barkdoll (Ken), of Weaverville, NC; daughter Penny Carriere (Ed), of Asheville, NC; his son, John Anderson (Janette), of Southern New Jersey; grandchildren, Richard, Jennifer, Michelle, Jeffrey, Kerry, John, and Kenton; and several great-grandchildren. Family and friends are invited to celebrate John's life on Saturday, February 18, 2017, at Groce Funeral Home, 1401 Patton Ave., Asheville. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will take place immediately after at Riverside Cemetery. Flowers are appreciated or memorial donations may be made to the John F. Keever, Jr. Solace Center, P.O. Box 25338, Asheville, NC 28813.