Robert K. Smith

Born on July 26, 1953, in Zanesville, Ohio, Rob grew up on a farm in Lancaster alongside his twelve siblings. It was there on the farm that he learned he could build, create, and fix just about anything. He graduated from Amanda-Clearcreek High School in 1971, where his father served as Superintendent, and went on to earn his degree from The Ohio State University School of Architecture.

Rob spent 41 years of his architectural career at Schooley Caldwell Associates, serving 21 of those years as a Principal. His work included projects at the Ohio Statehouse, Ohio Judicial Center, LeVeque Tower, Franklin Park Conservatory, and many historic preservation initiatives. Rob was the longest-serving President/Past President and Education Director of the Ohio Design Professionals and Code Analysts (ODPCA), where he prepared, guided, and presented continuing education for Ohio’s design professionals, building officials, and inspectors.

Above all else, Rob delighted in his family. His wife, daughters, and grandchildren were the true light of his life, and he took immense pride in being a devoted and hands-on grandfather. In recent years, continuing his lifelong passion for architecture, he delighted his family by designing and building an impressive chicken coop and goat barn. A loyal sports fan, Rob found joy in cheering on the Buckeyes and never missed a Columbus Blue Jackets game.

Rob is survived by his loving wife, Judy Gerber, of almost 40 years; daughters Alexandra (Joaquin) Pelaez of Marysville and Rachel Lynne (Michael) Sabo of Laurelville; grandchildren Amelia, Max, and Jameson Pelaez, and Caden, Annabella, and Jackson Sabo; six sisters and six brothers; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William A. and Anna Mae (Sweeney) Smith.

The family will receive friends on Monday, February 2, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Schoedinger Margarum Northeast in Gahanna, with refreshments served. The funeral service will begin at 1 p.m., with burial following at Maplewood Cemetery in New Albany. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation https://fundraise.givesmart.com/f/4d1u/n?vid=1ofd3b