Robert Nathan Smith

SMITH, Robert Nathan – age 96, of Flushing formerly of Flint passed away on March 27, 2018 in Flint, Michigan. Visitation will be held on Friday, March 30, 2018 from 4 pm – 7 pm at Hill Funeral Home – 11723 S. Saginaw Street, Grand Blanc, Michigan. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 31, 2018 at 11 am with Rev. Dr. Tommy McDoniel officiating with one hour of visitation prior to the service at Hill Funeral Home. Interment will take place at Sunset Hills Cemetery with Military Honors in Flint, Michigan. Robert was born on August 13, 1921 in Flint, Michigan to the late Victor and Justina (White) Smith. Robert was a proud graduate of Flint Central High School. On March 9, 1943 in Douglas, Arizona, Robert married the love of his life Elizabeth “Beth” Gyles. Robert proudly served his country during WWII in the United States Air Force. He was awarded numerous medals, such as the Distinguished Flying Cross, 11 Air Medals, Prisoner of War Medal, and Captain Rank as B-26 Bomber Pilot. He flew in 60 combat missions, was shot down over France and subsequently a prisoner of war for one year. He graduated from G.M.I and worked as an engineer for 40 years at AC Spark Plug. He enjoyed hunting, golf, snowmobiling, and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren at the cottage on Higgins Lake. He was lovingly referred to as Papa “eyebrow” by one branch of the family and “Ole” (old) Papa by the other branch. Robert was a wonderful man that will be deeply missed. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth “Beth”; children: Richard (Rebecca) Smith, Ronald (Shellie) Smith; grandchildren: Sarah Elizabeth (Michael) Pepper, Lisa Courtney (John) Yats; and great grandchildren: Anna Elizabeth Pepper, Jacob Michael Pepper, Robert Michael Wares, Brayden Zachary Wares, Jack Alvin Yats, Kelsey Ann Yats. He was preceded in death by his son, Robert Nathan Smith Jr. Please visit www.hillfh.com to leave online condolences for the family.