Robert Swartz Smetts

Robert Swartz Smetts died on January 10, 2011.

Born to Ralph George and Grace Murdoch Smetts in Akron on June 12, 1931, ``Bob' was raised in the Ellet area and lived in the Akron and Cuyahoga Falls area throughout his life. He graduated from Hower Vocational High School with metal working skills that he used to help build the trim work on the High Level Bridge. He was well known throughout the area as an auto mechanic who knew how to ``listen to a car' and who planned out the repair before beginning his work. He worked as a mechanic with Art Arfons' in his racing shop. He retired from his mechanic work when cars were taken over by computers and required new tools for repair, but he continued his associations and contacts with those in that field all through his retirement. In the last few years, he used his woodworking skills to build children's toys for his friend's grandchildren. He was a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of USA. In his non-working hours, he loved the company of his friends, any outdoor activity, especially in Pennsylvania and Canada, and tinkering in his workshop. His sense of humor provided happiness and laughter for everyone he met.

He will be missed by all who loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Richard Smetts, and his son, Robert. He is survived by his wife, Alicia Taylor Smetts; his daughter, Becky Jim Propst of Arizona; sons, Ray Michelle of Arizona, and Ronnie Tammie of Akron; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

At his request, cremation has taken place. A memorial service, with Mark Brazle officiating, will be held at the Billow FALLS Chapel, 1907 23rd Street, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, on Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 3 p.m., where friends may call from 1 to 3 before the service. There will be a future private service for the laying to rest of his ashes. Should friends desire, donations may be made in Bob's memory to the charity of the donor's choice. Billow FALLS Chapel