Robert “Bob” C. Smith, Jr.

We mourn the passing of Robert “Bob” C. Smith, Jr. on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at age 83, after a valiant battle with melanoma. Bob was the much beloved husband for 61 years of Sylvia; father of Rob (Kelly Kluge) Smith and Jillian (Matt) Stankowski; grandfather of Holden Stankowski; brother to Dennis (Linda) Smith, Rick (Lisa) Smith, Jan (Jim) Buetow, and Lori (Kent) Korek; and uncle and great-uncle to a multitude of nieces and nephews; and a friend to so many others.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; numerous Smith and McBride family aunts, uncles, cousins and by a dear grandson, Jacob Robert (Rob).

Bob was a great sportsman from early childhood, from high school quarterback, to big game hunting, golf, and finally to watching his grandson’s hockey, baseball and football games.

Bob served in the US Army with the 82nd Airborne and then had a career in the leather business. His retirement allowed him to enjoy his cabin on Monocle Lake in the UP, near his birthplace, Sault Ste Marie, MI, to enjoy golfing, playing cards with his friends, watching his favorite sports and hanging out with his family, especially Holden. Bob had a long, rewarding life.

We’re so grateful for the loving care and support of the whole family.

Visitation will be on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Zacherl Funeral Home, 875 E Division St in Fond du Lac. A memorial service will follow at 10:30 AM with Rev. Dr. Phillip M. Enderle presiding.

Online condolences may be offered at www.zacherlfuneralhome.com.