Karl Spangler Quisenberry

Karl Quisenberry, Age 89, of Asheville died on Wednesday February 18, 2016. Karl was born on April 4, 1926 in Washington, D.C. and served the United States Navy in the South Pacific during World War II. Following the war, he attended the University of Nebraska and later the University of Minnesota, where he received a PhD in Nuclear Physics in 1956. His professional life led him across the country, starting as a professor at the University of Pittsburgh, designing nuclear submarine reactors in Schenectady, New York and finally onto a career with Schlumberger in both Ridgefield, Connecticut and Houston, Texas. Karl moved to Asheville in 1993 and was active in numerous community groups including the Rotary Club, United Way and WCQS. In addition, he served on the Board of Directors of the Asheville Symphony Orchestra, where he was elected a Director Emeritus in 2007 in recognition of his outstanding service. Karl was passionate about travelling during his life, visiting 87 countries and all 50 states. In his younger years, he was an active hiker and skier (on both snow and water) and enjoyed flying a small airplane around the country. Karl is survived by Shirley, his wife of 67 years and their three children; Keith (and wife Karen) of Pittsburgh, PA, Nancy Brady (and husband David) of Woodbury, MN and David (and wife Jennifer) of Farmington, CT. In addition, Karl has 5 granddaughters, 3 grandsons and 2 grandpuppies. A memorial service will be scheduled in the near future. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to NC Stage, the Asheville Symphony or the Unitarian Universalist Congregation. Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.