Robert Eugene Smith

Robert Eugene Smith, 84, passed away late Monday, July 3, 2017at his son’s home in Andover. He was born February 24, 1933 in Enid Oklahoma, the son of Rev. Bernard R. and Nellie Lane Smith. He grew up in De Ridder, Louisiana and joined the United States Army on March 27, 1952. He was promoted to the rank of corporal before receiving his honorable discharge on March 6, 1954. Robert moved to Kansas after the Army and worked in the aircraft industry as a Quality Control Inspector for Cessna, Boeing, Beechcraft and Lear Jet.  His many hobbies and interests included building and flying model airplanes, fishing, hunting and riding motorcycles.  Robert will live on in the hearts of his three children, Debbie Youngman of Ballard, Texas, Stewart Smith of Bonham, Texas and Geron Smith and his fiancé Rita of Andover, Kansas.  He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Taylor Ryan Smith and a sister, DeLila “De” Woolson. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Saturday, July 8, 2017 at Number 8Cemetery east of Madison. Military honors will be provided by the Fort Riley Honor Guard. Condolences may be expressed at vanarsdalefs.com.