Robert B. Smuda (1927-2016)

Bob, a young-spirited octogenarian, left this life in 2016 on a sunny and warm June day befitting his personality.  Bob was born in Chicago, IL to Bruno and Joan (Rekas) Smuda and attended Chicago’s Lane Technical School.  As a very young WWII Naval enlistee, he served aboard the USS Harris in Okinawa,Japan, The Philippines and China.  Returning home he met Lillian Zarko and enjoyed 50 years of marriage and family life.

Bob created a full professional and service life including Hoffman Estates, IL volunteer fireman and squadron leader, service-station owner, Boy Scout troop leader, Sales and Marketing Director for a global mining company and Salvation Army bell ringer. In retirement, Bob became a farmer and Christmas tree grower, and shipper, at their Casco, WI farm, Akimbo Acres.  He was also a consistent member of the Green Bay and Milwaukee farmers’ market in the 80’s and 90’s.  When Lillian died in 1998 Bob moved to Sedona, AZ, an area which they previously enjoyed together. Bob returned to WI in 2004.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Lillian Smuda; brother, James Smuda and sister, Joan Griswold.

He is survived by his son, Robert J. Smuda, Kenosha, WI and daughter, Georgianne (Wilbur) Cox, Verona, WI.

Thanks to Brookside for their care and friendship, and to all who gave love.

Bob was a uniquely warm and tough man who made those around him feel good, and he is greatly missed.

A committal service with full military honors will take place on Wednesday June 29^th, 2016 at precisely 3:00PM at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery located at 21731 Spring Street in Union Grove.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Honor Flight Network or Salvation Army.