Robert Emmett “Bob” Smith, Jr., 87, of Waupaca (formerly of Wood Dale, IL) under the care of Hospice and his loving family, passed away on April 15, 2013.
Bob was born on July 14, 1925 in Omaha, NE to Robert and Eola (Pember) Smith, Sr. He attended schools in Bensenville, IL. After serving in the Army Air Corp during World War II, Bob married Jean Ann Johnson in 1949. They later divorced. For many years Bob worked as a letter carrier for the United States Post Office and retired as a clerk at the South Suburban facility in Illinois. His retirement brought him to Wisconsin to be closer to his children and grandchildren. Bob was an avid golfer and played many of the courses in Central Wisconsin. Perhaps his most memorable game was played in the late 1960’s while golfing in the VFW league at the Mohawk Golf Course in Bensenville, IL. Bob was known for his long tee shots, but felt that the person in the fairway was safely out of his range. Much to everyone’s surprise, he not only hit the fellow but the ball landed in the gentleman’s hip pocket. Above all, Bob loved his family.
He is survived by his sons, Gregory (Vivian) Smith of Raleigh, NC, Justin (partner Kathy Jo Fredricks) Smith of Vero Beach, FL and Kevin (Becky) Smith of Blue Island, IL; his daughters, Megan (Ken) Karth of Waupaca and Maureen (Joe) Pogorzelski, Sr. of Stevens Point. Also survived by grandchildren: Nathan (Hope) Karth of Appleton, Hannah Karth of Appleton, Jason (Kalissa) Smith of Wheaton, IL, Kyle Smith of Raleigh, NC, Derek ( fiance Jenny Latas) Smith of Chicago, IL, John (Michelle) Smith of Vero Beach, FL, Joseph (Becky) Pogorzelski, Jr. of Salt Lake City, UT, Katherine (Shaun) McMahon of Plover, Molly Pogorzelski of Stevens Point. Bob is furthered survived by great grandchildren, Emily and Abby Karth of Appleton, Asher and Olivia Smith of Wheaton, IL and Savannah King of Vero Beach, FL. Bob is also survived by his sister, Joan Smith of Waupaca. He was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter Samantha Smith Fox and great grandson, Ethan Karth.
The family would like to thank the wonderful people of Theda Care Hospice and Bethany Home for their kindness and care. Following a private, family service, Bob will be buried at the Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in King, WI. Assisting the family is the Maple Crest Funeral Home, Waupaca.