Robert O. Smith

Robert Oliver Smith

1930 – 2026

Robert Smith, age 95, died peacefully at home surrounded by family on March 21, 2026.

Bob was born on May 8, 1930 to Arthur and Abbie Smith in Denver Colorado. He joined his parents and older brother Ward in the family home on Clarkson Street. As a child he enjoyed the family dog, raising rabbits, going to Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts and adventures in Washington Park.

Bob attended South High School where he joined the Navy Reserve his senior year. After graduation, navy cruises in San Francisco and San Diego gave him a love for the California coast. After transferring to the Air Force he studied at Southern California College of Aeronautics where he learned to build and repair airplane engines.

During visits back home in Denver a young lady across the street caught his eye. On September 7, 1952 Helen Weatherwax and Bob were married. After a few more years in the Air Force they settled in the San Francisco Bay area. Bob got a job with United Airlines in 1955 and continued working on planes as an engine mechanic until 1994.

Bob and Helen raised three children: Beverly, Bruce and Barbara. The family enjoyed traveling and spending time at the beach. Bob was an Assistant Scoutmaster for his son's Boy Scout troop. Despite a few bumps and bruises he enjoyed instructing all his kids how to drive his 5 speed Fiat sport coupe. His knowledge of engines made him the go-to car mechanic on Potomac Way. Several years after the kids were all grown and married he and Helen moved back to Denver where their life together had begun.

Bob was a follower of Jesus, a great husband, dad, grandpa and great-grandpa, and a good friend and neighbor. He was kind, adventurous and fun. He told good stories and gave fantastic hugs. He and Helen were married for 73 years, and they were loving, tender and devoted to each other right through their last hours together.

Bob was preceded in death by his brother Ward. He is survived by his wife Helen and three children: Beverly (Duncan) Page, Bruce (Lisa) Smith and Barbara (Jim) Brady. His legacy continues through his seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren: Megan Page, Travis (Jessica) Brady with Ashton and Mia, Jenna (Tyler) Swanson with Stevie, Emma (Jordan) Fortmeyer, Greta Smith, Clara Smith and Tobin Smith.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026 at Quebec Place at Fairmount Cemetery, 430 S. Quebec Street, Denver Colorado 80247.