Robert H. Smith

Bob was born in Utica, NY on May 10, 1934 the son of Clement and Lois Smith. Bob grew up in Utica, a graduate of the Utica Free Academy. Following his education Bob served his country in the United States Air Force. After discharge he joined the Griffiss Air Force base fire department as a firefighter. In May of 1963 Bob married Edith A. Burr a union that produced many adventures and happy memories. Bob was employed by GAFB fire department for 29 years retiring as a Fire Inspector in 1984. Bob and Edie made their home in Utica then Poland, NY and they eventually moved to Booneville.

Bob’s life revolved around his family and family friends. Over the years some of his grandchildren and friends of his children would often go for a visit and end up for an extended stay at Bob and Edie's home. The door was always open. Some of their friends would truly become an extended part of the Smith family. For many years Thanksgiving and Christmas were special occasions when the whole family would gather at their home in Oxford.

After retirement they moved to Florida where Bob decided to build his own shrimp boat. After 20 years they built their dream home in Oxford. Bob enjoyed hunting in the Oxford Area and Adirondacks.

Bob was pre-deceased by his son Terence Matteson.

In addition to his wife Edith of Oxford, Bob is survived by his children; Robin Sortino of Utica, Maureen Jones and significant other Dan Heath of Safety Harbor, FL and Scott (Jinky) Smith of Bainbridge, Michelle DeVisser NC grandchildren Robert (Corinne) Sortino, Nathan (Nicole) Sortino, Brittany Jones, Erica Gainey and 2 great grandchildren Derek Sortino and Raina Soriano. Also surviving are his siblings; Jacqueline (Art) Jones of Utica, Gail Medici of Utica, Dale Smith(Lisa) of NJ and Michael Smith of Utica. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

A kind and generous man who will be missed and never forgotten.

A special thank you to the staff on the third floor of Chenango Memorial for their kind and compassionate care.

Arrangements are with the R.J.Fahy Funeral Home of Norwich, NY