The family of Robert Joseph Smith of Grand Ledge, MI announces his passing, and invites all who knew him to remember him here.
A life remembered begins, simply, with the telling.
Robert spent his working life as ['Computer Repair Technician'] and held deeply to the Catholic faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
Robert stood in service when he was needed; that, too, is a kind of legacy.
Robert Joseph William Smith, age 89, of Grand Ledge, Michigan, left this world peacefully on May 4, 2026, surrounded by cherished memories and the love of his family. Born on October 10, 1936, in Lansing, Michigan, Bob was the son of the late Leonard and Romilda (Leik) Smith. He graduated from St. Mary's High School before embarking on a journey that would define his life-a commitment to service and community.
Bob proudly enlisted in the United States Army on April 28, 1955, serving his country until his discharge as a Specialist Second Class on April 12, 1958. Following his military service, he dedicated over thirty years to his career as a Computer Repair Technician, first with Burroughs and later known as the Unisys Corporation, where he was known for his expertise and dedication.
Bob was a man of many passions. He found joy in the great outdoors, whether hunting, fishing, or gardening. Golfing was a beloved pastime, and his winter months were often spent soaking in the warm sunshine of Florida, creating lasting memories with family and friends. Above all, he treasured the time spent with his grandchildren -Nicklaus, David, Emma, Madeline, Quinton, and Samuel -who brought immense joy to his life.
Bob is survived by his loving spouse of over sixty-three years, Ellen (Fox), and his children, David (Kelly) Smith, Mary Jo (John) Anderson, and Sharon (Walt)Reynolds, along with his sister, Donna Meitler. He was preceded in death by his sisters and brothers-in-law, Sue Ann and Ralph Leonard, Jim (Mary Ann) Fabiano, and Mike Quintieri. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all those whose lives he touched.
In honoring Bob's legacy, a Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Grand Ledge by Father James Eisele. A Funeral Mass will begin at 10:00 am, followed by Military Honors to honor his service to our nation. Following a luncheon at the church, the Rite of Committal will take place at Hillside Cemetery. Visitation will take place at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm with a Scripture Service at 7:30PM.
In honor of his love for gardening, the family prefers potted plants or perennial flowers rather than fresh-cut arrangements or memorial contributions may be given to St. Michael Catholic Church, 345 Edwards Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837 (https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Giving/stm345273/CHURCH) or the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 84092, Dallas, Texas 75284-0692 (https://www.heart.org/?form=FUNELYZXFBW). His spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those he loved and those who loved him in return. Share your memories and condolences online at holihanatkin.com
