57
Hartford, SD
November 7, 2021
Robert Smith passed away at Dougherty Hospice following complications resulting from a stroke. He was 57 years old.
Robert Leslie Smith, Jr., son of Robert Sr. and Patricia Smith, was born August 26, 1964, in Monterey Park, Calif. Robert grew up and graduated in Southern California. Robert joined the U.S. Army after graduating high school. Robert was stationed to Fort Hood, Texas, where he was married, became a father figure to Katie (Kathleen) in November 1984, and a stepfather to four other children. Robert moved back to Southern California after his discharge from the Army in 1985. Robert bought his first home in Ontario, Calif. Robert became a foster parent for a while to a niece and opened a case to adopt Kathleen.
Robert worked as a water treatment operator/service for 11 years. He lived in Ontario until June 26, 1995, when he moved his family to Sioux Falls. While he was waiting for the closing of his second home to be final, Robert moved to Hartford in the summer of 1996. Robert worked at John Morrell/Smithfield for a short time, then was hired by waste management as a diesel mechanic. From there he enrolled in a trade school to further his education as a diesel mechanic. Robert became a foster parent to his stepdaughter’s kids for a few years. In September 2002, he had his first grandchild Skyler Buseman. Skyler and Robert had a bond just like Kathleen and Robert. Skyler and Kathleen were his world even after he divorced Kathleen’s mother in November 2010. Robert made sure their relationship stayed intact.
Robert had many hobbies. Motorcycles and classic vehicles were his passion. Kathleen and Robert rebuilt a ‘37 Ford. Skyler and Robert started to rebuild a convertible. Robert was always going to car shows and going for rides. Robert was a member of the Masons, El Shrine and the Widow Sons biker group. Robert was always willing to help and lend hand to anyone needing help or advice.
Grateful for having shared his life are his parents, Robert and Mary Smith (stepmother), Patricia Smith; brother Steven Smith; sister Virginia Smith; nephew Steven Smith; niece Desiree, stepdaughter/daughter Kathleen Buseman (Weinreis-Smith); grandchild Skyler Buseman; girlfriend Pearl; and many other relatives and friends.
Arrangements provided by Miller Funeral Home.