(Swanton High School Graduate; Lifelong Farmer)
Robert Henry “Bob” Smith, age 89, a lifelong farmer, passed away peacefully Friday evening, Jan. 23, 2026, surrounded by family at his Swanton, Ohio, home—the same house where he was born to Stephen C. and Isabel H. (Myers) Smith. Bob lived a life rooted in faith, family, and dedication to his work.
One of eleven children, Bob was born Oct. 6, 1936, and grew up working on his parents’ farm. He attended Immaculate Conception, Marygrove, where he received all his sacraments.
During high school, he worked various construction jobs and helped family members build their homes. After graduating from Swanton High School in 1954, Bob attended Toledo University, enrolled in the ROTC program, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering.
He enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a first lieutenant. Bob drove a school bus and was a substitute mail carrier, as well as a full-time farmer. In 1967, he purchased the family farm, where he continued to raise hogs and plant and harvest crops until his retirement.
Bob was a devout Catholic, actively participating as a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish. His faith was central to his identity and influenced many aspects of his life.
Among his proudest accomplishments was serving as caretaker of Immaculate Conception, Marygrove Church and Cemetery, where he demonstrated unwavering devotion to the church that was such an important part of his life.
Bob was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Forresters, formerly Catholic Knights of Ohio, and served on countless committees at his church over the years.
Bob enjoyed visiting with family and friends, watching baseball and football on TV, bowling in leagues, and playing euchre. He was a competitive euchre player, and everyone wanted to be Bob’s partner.
He also had a passion for genealogy and delving into the Smith family tree, uncovering the stories of his ancestors. He spent countless hours researching ancestry and linking thousands of individuals to local families, then graciously shared his work.
Bob leaves behind a caring family, including his brother Jerome (Jerry) Smith; his sisters Lucille Smith, Helen Gillen, and Theresa (Jeff) McArthur; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Charles Smith, Dr. John Smith, Donald Smith, David (Pat) Smith, William Smith; and sister Rosemary Ott. Bob’s legacy will continue to impact those who were privileged to know him, as he will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others.
Visitation will be held Thursday, Jan. 29, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Weigel Funeral Home in Swanton, where a vigil and rosary service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will continue Friday, Jan. 30, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception, Marygrove Catholic Church, 1750 N. Raab Rd., Swanton, where a Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Robert will be laid to rest next to his parents at Immaculate Conception, Marygrove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Parish or the Immaculate Conception, Marygrove Cemetery fund.