Robert J. Smith

 Robert J. (Bob) Smith, age 71, of Champaign, passed away on Monday, June 11, 2018 at Carle Foundation Hospital, after a long illness.

Bob was born January 8, 1947, in Urbana, to parents Ralph and Emma (West) Smith. They preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were two brothers-in-law, Burl Rummens and Michael Hayes.

Bob was a proud graduate of the Champaign Senior High School class of 1966. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted into the United States Army and fought honorably in the Vietnam War. He received several awards for his service, including a Bronze Star. After serving his country, Bob completed an apprenticeship and began his career as a patternmaker, glass cutter, and laborer.

Bob married Karen Johnson on June 23, 1973 in Champaign. She survives, as does their daughter, Krista Smith, of Champaign. He is also survived by in-laws Donna Rummens, Gary and Barbara Johnson, and Mary Lynn Fuller, and many nieces and nephews.

Bob was an avid sports fan of the Illini, the Chicago Bears, and most of all, the Chicago Cubs. It was such a thrill for him when the Cubs won the World Series in 2016. In addition to sports, he enjoyed family get-togethers, the companionship of his dogs, and fishing near a peaceful lake.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 14th at Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana, with Pastor Trent Cloin officiating. Family will receive visitors prior to the service. Interment of ashes at Eastlawn Burial Park will follow the service, as well as military rites by the Urbana American Legion.

Memorial contributions may be made to Patriot PAWS (www.patriotpaws.org), an organization that trains and provides service dogs to veterans with mobile disabilities and PTSD, or to the Champaign County Humane Society. Condolences may be offered online at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.

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