Robert Wendell Smith

Smith, Robert Wendell, son of Gertrude Virginia Strong-Russell and Robert Galloway Smith, died Wednesday, Feb. 02. at the Robert J. Dole Veterans Center in Wichita, Ks. Robert was born Nov. 07, 1945 in Great Bend, Ks. Survivors include brother Preston Zeller Russell, Pea Ridge, Ark, son Robert Strong Smith, Lawrence, Ks, daughters Jessica Nicolet Smith, Wichita, Ks and Adrienne Moore Clem, San Francisco, Ca and granddaughters Madeline Amour Mason and Alexandria Elizabeth Heck, both of Wichita, Ks. Robert was an airborne Army engineer with the 101st “Screaming Eagles” from July 1969 until January 1972 and saw combat action during the Vietnam War. After the war, Robert returned to Kansas where he completed his Bachelor’s of Science degree in Geology at Wichita State University. He went on to become an accomplished geologist - first, as a hard rock geologist, working in gold and uranium exploration, in Colorado and Utah, and then as a petroleum geologist in Kansas for 30 years. Robert was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and of the American Legion. Robert's passions were science fiction novels, crossword puzzles, alternative fuels, the study of natural rock formation and all things scientific, modern and technical. Robert was a beloved father, grandfather, friend, husband, brother and son. Robert's unique perspective, challenging intelligence and dry sense of humor will be missed by many. Memorial service is 10:00 am Tuesday, Feb 8 at Resthaven Mortuary, burial to follow at Winfield Veteran’s Cemetery. Donations can be made in his name to the Cambodian demining organization at www.cambodianselfhelpdemining.org.