Gene Kenneth Janetsky

In the twilight hours of October 12, 2023, our beloved brother in Christ, Gene Kenneth Janetsky, was called home to glory. Born on a brisk November day in 1942, in the humble town of Duanesburg, NY, Gene was a man who radiated love, laughter, and generosity throughout his 80 years on this Earth.

Raised by his dearly departed mother, Winifred Janetsky, Gene was the cherished sibling of Larry, Warren "Skip," and Lynn Janetsky. Their bond was a testament to the strength of family and the love they shared, a legacy that Gene carried forward into his own family. Our hearts go out to his beloved wife of many years, Carol, his son, Kenneth and daughter-in-law, Melanie, and his adored grandchildren, Nathan, Andrew, and Elyssa. They are left with memories of a man who loved deeply, laughed freely, and gave generously.

Gene was a man of intellect and diligence. His pursuit of knowledge led him to Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, NY, where he earned an Engineering Degree. His professional journey took him to esteemed companies like Bausch & Lomb and Eastman Kodak. Later, he moved to our beloved Greenville, SC, where he served as an engineer for Michelin Tire Co. for 24 fruitful years before retiring in 2004.

Yet, Gene’s life was not just about work. He had a spirit that danced to the rhythm of life. An avid golfer, he found joy in the serenity of the green and the challenge of the game. A deer hunter, he respected and admired the beauty of God's creatures. But it was in his church where Gene's soul truly shone. Serving as a greeter, usher, and choir member, he was a blessing to all who entered God's house.

Gene was a man who loved people, and people couldn’t help but love him back. He was a jester, always ready with a joke or a funny story to lighten the hearts around him. He had a knack for making friends, and those friends became family. He loved spending time with them, creating memories filled with laughter and joy.

In the spirit of a southern preacher, let us remember Gene not with sadness, but with celebration. For he is not gone, but merely resting in the arms of our Lord. He was a man of faith, a beacon of love and laughter in our community, a generous soul who gave more than he ever took. He was a loving husband, a proud father, a doting grandfather, a dear brother, and a friend to all who knew him.

To know Gene was to know love. To know Gene was to know laughter. To know Gene was to know the joy of living life to the fullest. As we remember him, let us strive to carry forward his legacy of love, laughter, and generosity. Let us strive to live our lives with the same joy and faith that defined his.

In the words of the good book, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Rest in peace, dear Gene. You have run the race, you have kept the faith, and now, a crown of righteousness is laid up for you in heaven.

Memorial Service will be 11:00 am on Friday, October 20 at
Brookwood Church
580 Brookwood Point Pl.
Simpsonville, SC 29681

The family will be receiving visitors from 10:00-10:45am.