Robert Warren “Bob” Smith, Jr., 78, of Union City passed away Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Funeral arrangements are pending and will be posted soon.
Robert was born on January 19, 1946 to Robert W. and Mary (Swihart) Smith, Sr. in Coldwater, Michigan. He attended Union City High School, graduating with the Class of 1965. Robert finished college at Suomi College in Hancock, Michigan, located in the beautiful Upper Peninsula. He received Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.
He married Shirleen Frances Blue on January 20, 1968 at the First Congregational UCC in Union City, but the marriage later ended in divorce.
After farming as a young boy and going on milk routes for his dad, Robert enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served in the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1969. After being honorably discharged from the military, Robert went to work for American Woodcraft in Union City.
He started his law enforcement career with the Union City Police Department in the early 1970’s. Bob then accepted a position with the Parchment Police Department in Parchment, Michigan. His career then took him to the Allegan County Sheriff’s Department. Robert then took his family to the Upper Peninsula where he took a job as Chief of Police in South Range, Michigan in Houghton County.
Years later, moving the family to Seattle, Washington, where he took a position as a Federal Police Officer. Returning to Union City after retiring from law enforcement, Bob started his own construction business, R. Smith & Sons.
Robert was a member of the Lions Club in South Range, Michigan and he was a lifetime member of the VFW Post #5319 in Athens, Michigan. Some of Robert’s hobbies included fishing, camping, snowmobiling, hunting, and spending time with his family. He adored his grandchildren, and they described him as, “the best Papa”.
Robert is survived by his sons, Robert “Rob” (Carol) Smith of Union City and Richard “Rick” (Michelle) Smith of San Jose, CA; his grandchildren, Joshua, Austin, Chloe, Ashley, Sophia, Julia, Noah and Christian, his great-grandchild Ferrynn Victoria Smith; his sister Christine Bradley of Union City; his cousins, Darrel Adams, Steve Danbury, and Diane Morrill; his two nieces Amy Bradley and Lisa Bradley.
Robert is preceded in death by his parents; his son Ryan; and his sister Judy Wyatt.
A special thank you to Sarah Pifer for becoming part of our family and helping to take care of Pops.
Memorial contributions can be made to Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation, P.O. Box 161, Union City, MI 49094, to assist with final expenses.
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