Russell E. "Rusty" Kanupp, age 66, of Weaverville, passed away on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was a son of the late Eugene and Edythe O'Kelley Kanupp, and was also preceded in death by an infant brother, Larry Keith Kanupp, and infant daughter, Autumn Brittany Kanupp.

Rusty is survived by his wife, of 35 years, Keitha McLean Kanupp; son, Rusty Kanupp, Jr.; daughter, Jordan Kanupp; two granddaughters that he dearly loved, Autumn Edy-Lyn Kanupp and Isla Rayne Kanupp; sisters, Sharon Carter (Myron), Sandy Kanupp and Brenda Burnette (Emery); sisters-in-law, Mary Jean Lytle (George), Bobbie Briggs (Merrill), and Sandra Bateman (Tom); brother-in-law, Sidney McLean; nine nieces and nephews; nine great nieces and nephews; and one great niece due in April.

Rusty was a 1975 graduate of TC Roberson High School. He held a Bachelors degree in History from UNC-Asheville, and an Associates degree in Automotive Systems Technology, as well as a CNA Certificate from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College. His careers were interesting and varied from restaurant management, furniture manufacturing, Hospice CNA, machinist, sales, diesel mechanic and most recently, auto parts delivery.

Rusty had many interests and hobbies which included NASCAR, Carolina Basketball, history, genealogy, tinkering on cars, and projects around his house. But, by far, his favorite activity was spending time with the family he loved so much, especially his granddaughters.

The family would like to express their appreciation to Care Partners Hospice for their assistance during the last few weeks.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm Sunday, April 2, 2023, in Robbie Capps Memorial Chapel of Blue Ridge Funeral Service. Reverend Danny Sprinkle will officiate. The family will receive friends from 2:00 – 3:00 pm Sunday prior to the service at the funeral home.

Flowers are appreciated, or you may make a memorial donation in his honor, to your favorite charity.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org.