ROBERT W. SMITHEAL

ROBERT W. SMITHEAL, 86, a lifelong resident of Houston, Texas, passed away on Monday January 4, 2010. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Gloria and son, Rodney. Robert is survived by his children, Robert, Jr. and wife Judy, Cheryl and husband David, Randy and wife Deborah, seven grandchildren, Robert, III, Kristen, Staci, Stephanie, Jeremy, Amanda, and Brandon; and 17 great-grandchildren. He bravely served his country during World War II, receiving three Bronze stars and an Air Medal with 3 Oak Leaf clusters. Robert was a very modest individual, who never discussed his many accomplishments. Among other things, during his early career, he was a successful homebuilder. Many of the houses he designed and constructed continue to be considered as some of the finer homes located in the Memorial Villages area of Houston. Upon completely changing his business focus, in 1969, Robert co-founded Northwest Manufacturing, later assuming full ownership. With the involvement of many fine employees and loyal customers, Northwest Manufacturing continued its steady development into a company known today for outstanding quality and service. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 8:00 PM Friday January 8, 2010. Services will be held at 12:30 PM Saturday January 10, 2010 in the Memorial Oaks Funeral Home Chapel 13001 Katy Freeway Houston, Texas 77079. Interment will follow in the Memorial Oaks Cemetery.