Robert Lee Smith

Robert Lee Smith, 87, of Buckhannon WV and formerly of Melvindale MI, died on February 11, 2008 at the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor MI after a long struggle with cancer. Mr. Smith was born on March 25, 1920 in Crawford WV to the late Jasper and Vernia (Sanders) Smith. His twin brother Richard, sisters Jessie and Ruth Hefner, and brothers George, Ralph and Clyde Smith, all preceded him in death. Mr. Smith is survived by his wife of 62 years Martha (Woofter) whom he never stopped loving for a moment. He is also survived by son Jack (Janet) Smith of Clifton VA and his loving daughters Karen (Larry) Krot of Canton MI and his stepdaughter Mary Maday of Wheatland WY. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Kristin (Randy) Brady of Brighton MI, Michael (Sarah) Krot of Plymouth MI, Jennifer Krot of Canton MI and Erica Shadlin of Colorado. He is also survived by six great-grandchildren. Mr. Smith had many nieces and nephews and loved them all, however, he carried a special place in his heart for Mary (Russell) Rittenhouse of Weston WV and Lee (Penny) Hefner of Horner WV - both of whom provided much appreciated love and support through the years. Mr. Smith was a proud World War II veteran, having served for three years with the 34th "Red Bull" division of the US Army. He often told stories of the action he saw in Algiers and Tunisia in Africa as well as major battles at Salerno, Cassino Pass, and Anzio. He was decorated with several medals and a Purple Heart. After the war, Mr. And Mrs. Smith moved to Michigan where he worked as a pipe fitter at the Marathon Oil refinery in Detroit for 34 years. He remained a true patriot throughout his life and was active with veterans groups, participating in parades and assisting with military burials. Mr. Smith was an extraordinarily kind and gentle man who was rarely heart to raise his voice in anger, to speak ill of others, or to complain about tough circumstances. He was dedicated to his family and country, and had a work ethic that few today would recognize. His life will serve as an example to his family for many years to come. Funeral plans are incomplete, but will be held at the Tomblyn-Whitescarver Funeral Chapel in Buckhannon, WV. Memorial contributions may be made to Ann Arbor VA, Voluntary Service 24V, 2215 Fuller Road, Ann Arbor MI 48105 (Memo line on check-Hospice). To share a memory, please click on the online condolences link on this page.��

Robert Lee Smith

March 25, 1920 - February 11, 2008