Robert E. "Bob" Smith, age 91, of Whitehall, passed away peacefully Sunday afternoon, October 26, 2025.

Bob was the second of three children born to J.B. and Euna (Elliot) Smith, growing up in Ranger, WV. He graduated from Guyan Valley High School, then found work in Columbus.  His heart often reflected on the time he spent in Ranger, and the peacefulness he felt when he visited there.

During his elementary school years in Ranger, WV, Bob was noted for his skill at Marbles. In 8th grade he won several tournaments, including the West Virginia State Competition followed by a 4th place finish at the National Marbles Championship in Wildwood, NJ.

In 1955, Bob married Betty Louise Balazs of Warfield, KY in Columbus, OH.  He then served in the U.S. Army from June of '56 for two years.  During that time, their only child, a son, Steven, was born.

After his military service, they made their home in Whitehall, OH, where they remained throughout their married life.

Bob worked for several years as a mechanical technician at North American and Rockwell Aviation companies. He then joined Rimrock Corporation where he worked as a machinist before retiring in 1995.

Bob enjoyed hunting, gardening, working on cars, and repairing small engines, equipment that he acquired during frequent visits to yard sales and flea markets.  The last couple of years, he played pool weekly at his assisted living facility.

Bob is fondly remembered for his quips, his ingenuity with repairs, his frugality and keen mind.  A tool and garage enthusiast, he collected tools (there were never enough screwdrivers!) and always had a very tidy working garage.  His lawn was always mowed, his garden always weeded, and his paint brushes always cleaned.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife Betty of 63 years, his son Steven (Kathy) of Springboro, and sister Joyce of Huntington, WV.

He is survived by his brother Bill (Ellen) of Clinton, MD, his daughter- in-law, Kathy Smith, his grandson Travis Mallion and great-grandson, Tripp Mallion, several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 8th at 12:00 Noon at Evans Funeral Home, 4171 E. Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH.

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