Robert Richard Smith

 Robert Richard Smith, better known as Bob, passed away at his home on Monday, November 25, 2024, with his daughters and wife at his side. He was 84. He was born on May 31, 1940 in West Branch to Lynn and Georgina (Richardson) Smith. On August 17, 1963, he married the love of his life, Margo Nelson.

Bob was a proud graduate of West Branch High School, Class of 1958. Following his graduation, he served his country honorably in the United States Army's renowned 82nd Airborne Division from 1958 to 1960.

For 30 years, Bob owned Crecine Insurance Agency in West Branch, exemplifying dedication and integrity in his career. Bob enjoyed serving others both professionally and personally. He served on the boards of the Tolfree Hospital, the Mitten Bay Girl Scout Council, and First Bank of West Branch. He was an active member of the Moose Lodge, the Eagles, and the American Legion, where he enjoyed his friends and his incredible luck at keno.

Bob was a man of many passions. He enjoyed his childhood hobby of downhill skiing and shared that with his wife and daughters. In the early 1970’s, Bob and Margo purchased a condominium at Boyne Mountain with three other families of friends. Many years of skiing and memories were made filled with snow and laughs. 

Bob’s ultimate passion was golf. He took pride in shooting his age on his birthday, including this year by carding an impressive 84 in May. He carried his patriotism to his passion, proudly wearing and using red, white, and blue attire and golf equipment. After retirement, Bob and Margo spent time in Tennessee at Rarity Bay, where they golfed and made many lifetime friends. He loved his golf buddies in Michigan and Tennessee. He would offer a cocktail porchside to any friends playing Number 4. 

Bob’s proudest times were rooted in his family. He treasured every moment spent with his wife of 61 years, Margo, his daughters, Jill (Scott Williams) Smith and Christine (Michael) Juarez, and the joy brought to him by his grandchildren: Nicholas (Riley) Retherford, Megan (Joshua) Hughey, Andrea Williams, Jack (Lydia Luptowski) Juarez, and Tate Juarez, and his great grandson, Everett Robert Hughey. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Bob also loved his grand dogs and cats. No meal was had that the dogs were not at his side. 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lynette Mulkey.

Bob would like nothing more than to be remembered when you are with friends, are dealt a great hand of cards, hit a perfect golf shot, hit your numbers at keno, or think of a happy marriage and loving family. 

Cremation has taken place and a graveside memorial for immediate family will be held at Brookside Cemetery in West Branch at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Tunnel of Towers Foundation or the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. www.steuernolmclaren.com