Robert (Smitty) V. Smith, 89, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2015, surrounded by his 4 children.
He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah April 14, 1926 to Milo Pearce Smith and Ellen Mary Markel.
Robert graduated from East High School in 1943 and went on to attend the University of Utah. He married his beautiful bride, Gloria Grace Blackham, on Jan.20th, 1949.
Bob enlisted in the Army in 1943 and served during the final years of World War II. He was honorably discharged from military service on Nov. 1, 1945. He received the American Theater Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal and the Victory Medal for his service.
His discharge papers stated that he was "the ideal representation of courage, optimism and determination", qualities he continued to exhibit his entire life. He lived by the moto, "I can do it!"
Bob worked as a Utah/Idaho independent insurance agent and enjoyed his membership in The Honorable Order of the Blue Goose.
He also enjoyed golfing, fishing, and camping with his family. He loved being with his friends, and once a friend was made it was a friendship for life. It was for this reason that one of his favorite activities was fishing with his lifelong friends in the "Fishy Group."
Robert was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Milo P. Smith. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, his 2 daughters, Allison (Dave) Clayton and Linda Smith-Hunter; 2 sons, R. Bradford (Kim) Smith, Scott (Heather) Smith; 11 grandchildren, Jennifer, Scott (Caroline), Peter (Kami), Lizz, Melissa (Josh), Nikki (Chad), Adam (Kinsi), Brad (Crystal), Krista, Kyle (Tamara) and Derrik; 20 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild, as well as 2 nieces and 6 nephews.
In spite of a stroke and all of the physical limitations that he encountered, he lived his life with humor, courage and perseverance. With his attitude and gratitude for life, he managed to live almost 30 years beyond what the doctors had predicted. He has been an example not only for his family, but also for so many others who knew him and even those who had only briefly met him.
The family would like to give a special "Thank You" to Pacifica Millcreek for their loving support and care. We would also like to thank Larkin Mortuary for their assistance.
A gathering to celebrate his life will be held Friday May 29th from 11:30 ‚ 1:00 at Larkin Sunset Gardens 10600 S. 1950 E in Sandy, Utah.
