Robert E. Smith

Robert Ervin Smith, Jr., 87, of Gays Mills, joined his son Jason in God’s heaven when Robert passed away January 4, 2022, at home with his loving family nearby.

Robert was born in Chicago to Robert Sr. and Wanda (Daufenbach).  He became a Chicago public school teacher for thirty years and was chosen to co-teach a gifted ed program for grades 6, 7, and 8.  For 10 years he taught art and music to these students, and his co-teacher taught language arts.  Bob also taught voice and was a well-known and respected baritone for 13 years at Lyric Opera of Chicago.  He sang continually thoughout the area in many diverse venues.  One of Bob’s favorite events was singing in Viroqua with Paul Berquist and the Ridge Tones choir for several years.

Robert married Geraldine (Fontana) whom he had met at Teachers College and they created a loving 62 years together.  Robert is survived by Geraldine and their six children:  Erika of Chicago, Christopher (Stephanie) of Gays Mills, Dietrich of Ferryville, Emile (Camille) of Seneca, Damian (Claire) of Colorado, and the late Jason (Margaret) of Chicago.

A memorial gathering will be announced later in the year.  In the meantime, please hold us all in your thought and prayers.

The Roth Family Cremation Center is serving the family.

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