Obituary of Robert Lewis Smith Sr.

Robert Lewis Smith Sr. Robert Lewis (Bob) Smith Sr., age 100, of Palmetto, FL formerly of Dundee, NY and Brockport, NY, passed away on February 24, 2020. Graveside service and burial will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at Hillside Cemetery, Dundee, NY with Lay Pastor Lew Ann Giles, Dundee Baptist Church, officiating. Born in Philadelphia, PA to Cardon William and Clara Marian (Collins) Smith on September 1, 1919. He was the grandson of Civil War veteran, Private Lewis Edgar Collins, and served in the Merchant Marines during World War II. A retired chef and restaurateur, Bob owned and managed several local establishments including the Brockport Village Inn in Brockport, NY, the Wagon Wheel Café in Dundee, NY, and a concession stand at the Windmill Farm and Craft Market in Penn Yan, NY. He enjoyed cooking and baking well beyond retirement, especially for large gatherings of friends and family. He was a communicant of the Dundee Baptist Church. Of the many activities Bob enjoyed, roller skating was a lifelong passion, skating well into his 90s. He loved playing pinochle, singing, and was a member in several chapters of the Barber Shoppers, as well as the praise band of his church, Family of God UMC, Palmetto FL. He was particularly fond of organ music, Irish music and Big Band Era tunes. He thoroughly enjoyed sharing his love of music with family and friends. Bob is survived by his children – Kathleen Wence of Holly, NY; Margaret (Richard) Strassel of Rochester, WA; Robert L. Smith, Jr. of Mt. Tabor, VT; Marian (Sean) Mallory of Mankato, MN; Glenn Patrick (Mechell) of Buckfield, ME; twelve grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his first wife, Margaret (Dilger) Smith; his second wife, Elizabeth (Shrantz) Smith; son-in-law Robert Wence; one grandchild and two great grandchildren. Arrangements are entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home 36 Water St. Dundee, NY. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.