Robert (Bob) Smith, age 97, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2022, at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in Chippewa Falls, where he had been residing.
Bob was born on December 1, 1924, in Superior, Wisconsin, to Orin and Emma Smith. After graduating from Central High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during World War II in the Pacific Theatre from 1943 to 1946.
Bob married his wife Martha (deceased) in 1948. He worked for the Soo Line Railroad in Superior until he moved to Eau Claire with his young family in 1954 to start his own business, Bob Smith’s Window Cleaning, which he proudly operated until he retired.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Orin and Emma, by brothers Orin, Harry and George, and by sisters Dolores, and LaVaughn. He is survived by one brother, Gerald, and five of his children, sons Gregory (Lois), Jay (Chris Miller), Jeffrey (Susan), Timothy (Lori), and beloved daughter Michelle Jarvis. He was preceded in death by sons Brian (Kathy Weir) and Rodney (Mary Sherlock). He is also survived by his grandchildren Matthew, Emily, Sarah, Schuyler, Kristen, Taylor, Jordan, Kristian, Rachel, Kelly, Andrew, and Justin, and by great-grandchildren Stella, Adrian, and Sebastian.
Bob had a strong work ethic and was proud of the business he created and built. Outside of work, he was an avid Green Bay Packers fan who also enjoyed playing golf and occasional fishing excursions.
Interment of ashes will take place at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery. Memorials can be sent to the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery, N4603 Veterans Way, Spooner, WI 54801, or to the Wisconsin Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls, 275 E. Park Avenue, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729.
The family would like to extend thanks to the nurses and staff at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in Chippewa Falls for their patience and loving care.
Friends and family are welcome to leave online condolences below.
I am so sorry about the loss of your father I always enjoyed running into him. He will be remembered by many
A hard working gentlemen, that loved his family!
Hugs and prayers sent to your family. I worked as a nurse at the Veteran’s Home and always enjoyed my time with Bob. One day Bob looked at my name badge and said “Vetch, I know your son! He works for Xcel Energy!” At the time my son had only applied for a job with Xcel Energy but a few weeks later did indeed get the job. It always amazed me with all the corporations, that Bob picked out Xcel Energy. We also talked about dancing and music. He was a wonderful guy. It was easy to see how much he loved your mom and all of your family. I will miss him.
No matter the occasion Bob always brought joy to it. Martha and he raised a great family together. Bob was a very hard worker and a good and honest businessman. I pray that his family, during this time of bereavement, may take solace in Bob’s strong Christian faith that he displayed so many times in his life.