Robert G Smith

In Loving Memory of Robert G. Smith (1935 - 2023)

Robert G. Smith of Milford, Ohio, affectionately known as Bob, peacefully passed away on December 2, 2023, at the age of 88, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born to Willard and Fayma Smith in Bryan, Ohio in 1935. After graduating from Bryan High School in 1953, Bob served in the Army Reserves at Fort Sill, Oklahoma and embarked on a 12-year career at Aro Corporation before dedicating 32 years to the Metallurgy Lab at Chase Brass. His time at Chase Brass, combined with his distinctive copper-colored hair and beard, earned him the nickname "Brass Man,” which also served as his CB handle during his decades of boating and fishing adventures on lakes throughout the Midwest.

In 1955, Bob met his beloved wife, Carol Jean (Rupp), at a square dance. They were married in 1957, and their love story spanned 66 years of marriage, marked by unwavering dedication to one another. Their children cherish the memory of how Bob's face lit up in Carol's presence, especially on the morning of his passing when Carol arrived at his bedside.

In addition to his loving wife, Bob is survived by their children Jari (Jeff) Smith, Joel Smith, Amy (Rod) Ward, and Andrea (Doug) Flora, nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Bob was preceded in death by his father and mother, Willard and Fayma Smith, his brother, Roger Smith, and his son, Jed.

To his grandchildren, he was fondly known as Poppy. To his children, he earned the affectionate title "ImaDad" because he was always ready to assist with any home or lawn maintenance issue. In his later years, when physical limitations prevented him from such tasks, he devoted his time to fervent prayer for his extensive family multiple times a day.

Bob's deep faith in God was central to his life, and he found immense joy in his church community. He was a charter member of the Evangelical Mennonite Church, where he taught Sunday School and served as a deacon. Upon moving to Cincinnati, he attended Faith Church, where he actively participated in men's Bible study and small group discussions. Bob's passion for serving others was evident in his willingness to help friends, family, neighbors, and anyone in need, using the practical "fix it" talents that God had blessed him with.

A celebration of Bob's life will take place at Faith Church, 5910 Price Road, Milford 45150, on December 14th with visitation at 4:00 and service at 5:00 with a light meal to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the benevolence fund at Faith Church or to Hospice of Cincinnati. Alternatively, they encourage you to honor Bob's servant’s heart by extending a helping hand to serve someone in need in your own community.