Robert P. Batson

One of the greatest gifts Mr. B ever gave to me is the friendship I have with his daughter Lynda. Our parents, Bob & Doris and Ruth & Dick, were the best of friends at least for all of my life. So Lynda and I grew up together, even when we didn't want to! 40 years goes beyond the realm of friends into the true meaning of family and I am forever grateful for this extension of my family. Mr. B. will be missed by many but he will live on forever in our hearts.

My fondest memories of "Mr. B" are from more than 30 years ago. He & my dad, the late Richard "Dick" Smith, were in Kiwanis together and our families would often travel together to Kiwanis conventions. The best trip was the one to Toronto. I don't remember laughing as hard as I did that week over everything silly. How a funeral director could have such a wonderful sense of humor always amazed me. I will be forever grateful for the friendship that Bob & Doris had with my mom & dad, Ruth &...