Robert John Smith
March 11, 1926 ~ November 23, 2015
Robert John Smith, age 89, of Painesville passed away Monday, November 23, 2015 at Kemper House. He was born March 11, 1926 in Painesville to Beatrice (Burt) and Alva H. Smith.
Robert graduated in 1945 from Harvey High School in Painesville and he served in the U.S. Navy. Robert worked as a maintenance supervisor for Painesville Township schools until retiring, and was owner of Perennial Nursery in Painesville. He was a Priest of the Church of Jesus Christ, Kirtland Restoration Branch and loved traveling and camping.
He is survived by his son, Robert K. (Regina) Smith; daughter, Cheryl L. (Kent) Marks; grandsons, Kory (Clare) Smith, Jason (Sue) Smith, Joshua (Jen) Marks, Casey Marks; great grandchildren, Cole, Luke, Samuel, Lila, Emme and Sabrina. Robert was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Shirley; his parents and sister, Evelyn Malkamaki.
A graveside service will be held 11:00 a.m. on December 5, 2015 at Perry Cemetery. Church Elder Al Clough of the Church of Jesus Christ will officiate. Grandson Kory Smith will provide a eulogy for his grandfather.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 74924, Cleveland, OH 44194-4924.
The family is being assisted by THE BEHM FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, Madison.
Condolences may be left at www.behmfuneral.com
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I heard of his passing this morning on a call from my Mom when I returned from church here in Seattle. I remember him as Cheryl's Dad, always kind, always smiling, with a great laugh – not always the great way that a guy would remember the Dad of a girl you were dating back then. As a retired Civil Engineer Corps Admiral after 28+ years in the Navy, I was surprised to read that Robert was also once in the Navy. I never knew that, but it was a long time ago when I didn't even know that I would have a Navy connection! I remember a loving family who shared a lot together; picnics, dinners, camping, outdoors… I wanted Bob and Cheryl to know that my prayers are with them and their family in this difficult time…
Bob, Cheryl, Gina So sorry to read of Robert's passing. I liked him when I talked with him several times at Kemper House while visiting my husband (Robert Capella). I also enjoyed meeting you three recently. Please accept my sympathy.
Dot Capella