Robert Barry Smith

Robert "Bob" Smith, age 92, passed away peacefully on August 4 at his home in Keizer.

Bob was born on October 10, 1933, to Thomas and Margaret Smith in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. His youth was filled with accomplishments, including being named the Canadian Junior Yo-Yo Champion at age 12, and the Manitoba speed skating champion at 15. As a teenager he became a professional accordion player and moved to the United States where he eventually enlisted in the US Air Force.

Bob served as a radio operator on a cargo plane during the Korean Conflict. Later, while stationed in San Antonio, Bob's charm, musical talent, and - as she emphasized in family stories many years later - vehicle ownership won the affection of Irene Marilyn Smith. Bob and Irene were married in 1955, building a family and a loving life together with their children Michael and Christie until Irene's passing in 2017.

After his military service, Bob's expertise in aviation communications was put to use as an air traffic controller. During his 32-year career with the FAA, Bob helped to develop the first computerized air traffic control system and served as a leader in PATCO, the air traffic controller's union. He testified before the US Congress to advocate for a national system of air traffic flow management, and rose to the position of Deputy Chief of the Honolulu Air Traffic Control Center.

In retirement, Bob's attention shifted fully to his great loves of golf, community, and, above all, family. He and Irene moved to Oregon where they could be near their grandchildren, to whom they gave boundless love and support. As years passed, their family grew and he relished his roles as Dad, Papa, and Great Papa. He was thoughtful of others' needs, generous with his support, and he displayed a rare combination of quick wit, compassion, and talent that made him a joy to know.

Bob was an active member of the McNary Men's Golf Club for many years, and enjoyed spending time with his friends at both the Keizer Courthouse and the Keizer-Salem Senior Center. His spirit and generosity now live on through those he loved. Those left behind by his passing will never stop wishing they had another moment to laugh with him; another improvised piano solo at a holiday gathering; another chance to thank him for everything, which he would deflect and turn into a question about how they were doing, and whether they needed anything else. Bob Smith gave all he could to those he loved, whenever he could, and those who loved him will remember him whenever they do the same.

Bob is survived by his son Michael Smith and his wife Suzanne, his daughter Christie Smith and her husband Dr. Robert J. Greybeck Jr., his grandchildren Amanda Watson and her husband Jeffrey, Sarah Fischel, and Alexander Tanguy, and his great-grandchildren Oliver, Simon, and Eleanor Watson. He also leaves behind Willa Porter, his loving companion in his later years, and her grandson Owen.