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ROBERT SMITHDAS Obituary

SMITHDAS--Dr. Robert J., author, lecturer and poet, passed away today at the age of 89. Dr. Smithdas was the former Director of Community Education for Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths & Adults (HKNC). (A full bio including his list of honorary degrees and achievements can be found at www.helenkeller. org). A resident of Port Washington, NY, Dr. Smithdas is survived by his wife Michelle. The Board of Trustees and staff of Helen Keller Services for the Blind and HKNC are deeply saddened by the passing of this remarkable human being. A memorial scholarship fund for HKNC students has been created in Dr. Smithdas' memory. In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to: Marina Carroll, Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths & Adults, 141 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY 11050 or via email, marina.ca[email protected].

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Jul. 19, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
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4 Entries

Rick Bartlett

August 6, 2014

Michelle, I am so very sad to hear of your loss of Bob. While I never met him. We corresponded briefly after discovering his poetry. I continue to read those same poems often and have set many to music for chorus, and continue to do so, with his kind permission. I truly had hoped that one day I would be able to meet him and thank him personally for touching my heart with those simple and beautiful words that gave me sight beyond my own vision. You and your family are in my thoughts, even though I have just learned of this. What a wonderful legacy he leaves! Yet, my heart is saddened. May God's warm, loving embrace be known, felt and welcomed during this time.
My deepest condolences,
Rick Bartlett

stacey freedman

July 20, 2014

Michele, I'm so sorry to hear of bobs passing.. i feel so honored to have met him and shared many good times with both of you.. you are forever in my thoughts during this difficult time..

maryann sossong

July 19, 2014

michelle, I m very sorry for your great loss of your man, he s a role model for deaf-blind communities everywhere. it was rewarding and grateful knowing him and his work when I worked at HKNC.

Maryann Sossong

July 19, 2014

Michelle, I'm sorry for your great loss, he was a role model for deaf-blind communities everywhere. It was rewarding and grateful to know him briefly when I worked for HKNC.

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