Robert J Smith, 87, of West Melbourne, FL, died Tuesday, September 11, 2012 at Kindred Hospital, Melbourne, FL.

Robert was born December 24, Christmas Eve, in Shirley, MA. A son of Chester and Anna (LePage) Smith. At 17 years old, on Nov 27, 1942, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served on the Battleship USS Iowa during World War II. He was a Machinist's Mate, Third Class. On Nov 17, 1945 in Long Beach, CA he married Myrtle (Marie) Beeson. They took a train back to MA where they lived for a year until Robert was discharged from the Navy. Then they packed up their 1945 Plymouth and headed for Texas. When they made a stop to visit Marie's parents, they decided to stay in IL.

Robert got his barber's license and they raised three children. Robert J Smith, Jr., Jack A Smith and Judith A Smith. Robert also worked and retired from Kraft Foods in Champaign, IL. He was a treasured Boy Scout Leader and has remained in touch with many of his scouts until present.

He was an Honorary Lifetime member of the American Legion, post 24 in Champaign, IL for 66 years. For over 20 years Robert and Marie lived in Melbourne, FL. They were HUGE fans of the ocean, taking walks, and remained deeply in love for 60 years until 2005 when Marie passed. They were members of Ascension Church and Robert is known by MANY from his working at the Super Flea Market, Melbourne, FL and from his love of having and going to garage sales. He also worked at Winn Dixie as their Premier Meats Chef (he was an EXCELLENT chef), and also worked at Wal Mart until he was 85 as their Primary Seafood salesman, and was always known to give everyone great cooking advice. He loved life, and was the most optimistic, intelligent, family loving man. He will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him.

He is survived by his brother Harold Smith of Shirley, MA; his children Robert J Smith Jr. of Mahomet, IL; Jack A Smith and his wife Carol Smith of Tolono, IL; and Judith A Smith of West Melbourne, FL. He also leaves 4 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Also 2 Huskies, Bella and Zena, that were his greatest fans.

Graveside services will be Monday, September 17, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. at St. Mary's Cemetery in Champaign, The Rev. Dennis Spohrer officiating. Military Rites will be accorded by VFW Post 5520, Champaign, assisted by American Legion Post 24, Champaign. Condolences may offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com