Robert E. Smith

Robert “Smitty” Eugene Smith age 89 of Holgate and formerly of Defiance, died Wednesday morning, December 19, 2018 at Vancrest of Holgate.

His Legacy… Bob was born June 30, 1929 to Lee and Addie (Brink) Smith in Pleasant Bend, Ohio.  He is an Army veteran who proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict.  Robert was a member of the Hamler American Legion.  On June 15, 1952 he married Irene Mehring in Defiance.  He was a Hamler business man owning 2 gas stations and the Dairy Bar.  He retired from  Johns Manville in 1999.  After retirement he worked for Rettig Pallets, Holgate and Walmart in the automotive shop.  Bob was a member of the First Church of God, Defiance.  He was one of the founding members of the church and was very active in the children's ministry.

His Family… He is survived by his loving wife Irene of 66 years; children: Deborah (Bob) Hastedt, Hamler, Randy (Lou) Smith, Hamler, Rodney Smith, Scottsdale, AZ and Chad (Niki) Smith, Collinsville, OK; 8 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and 2 great great grandchildren.  Bob was preceded in death by their children: Craig, Joanne and Ronald.

His Farewell Services… Friends will be received in the Zachrich Funeral Home, 114 William Street, Holgate on Friday from 3-7 pm and 1 hour before the church service.  The celebration of Smitty’s life will be on Saturday, December 22, 2018 at 10:00 am in First Church of God, 561 Carter Road, Defiance with Pastors Larry Kennedy and Rick Rufenacht officiating.  Burial will follow in Ayersville Cemetery with military honors.  Contribution’s made in Robert’s memory, can be made to the family.