Robert (dad) left us peacefully on August 15, 2024, surround with love.
He is predeceased by the love of his life Deborah Smith (Nychuk) and his parents Leslie and Janet Smith of Barrie. Survived by his loving children Tracy (Bill) Hachey of Kirkland Lake and Steven (Karen) Smith of Englehart. His grandchildren who were his pride and joy Ashley, William, Jackson, Jeffery and great grandchild Boden. His sister Elaine (Garth) Daniels of Barrie and nieces Kerri (Josh) MacGregor, and Kim (Darren) Cunliffe and great nephew and nieces Owen, Jocelyn, Paige, and Jorjia.
Rob was born and raised in Kirkland Lake and later moved with his wife Debbie to Kapuskasing where he started his career as a lineman with Ontario Hydro. After having two children they moved back to Kirkland Lake where he enjoyed a wonderful career of 30+ years with amazing colleagues we have heard so many stories about.
Coaching hockey was near and dear to his heart as he coached youth in the area in minor hockey for decades. He and his wife Debbie loved the rink and that is where you could find them cheering on their team. He enjoyed coaching alongside his family, Debbie, Steven, and Bill for the American Barrick midget team for several years at the end of his coaching days. Rob was also a proud lifelong member of the Kirkland Lake’s Masonic Lodge (Doric Lodge No. 623 A.F. & A.M).
As per his wishes immediate family will gather for the interment at a later date.
As a family we would like to send out a tremendous thank you and sincere appreciation to Betty Smallwood whose palliative care support and compassion helped us during this difficult time. Thanks go out Dr. Kurki and the nursing staff at BRH. We thank friends and extended family who have reached out and who have supported the family during this time.
Donations can be made in his name to the Kirkland Lake Minor Hockey Association to support our local youth in being involved in sport. Donations can be e-transfered to klmha@live.ca.
I am saddened by the passing of Mr. Smith. He was a terrific man and was a pleasure to know through work and sports. I always enjoyed chatting with him every chance I got. He and your mom can now manage and coach together once again. They make a great team.
Condolences from the Witty family.
Sorry for you loss.
Praying you all find comfort in each other
The neighborhood will never be the same, rest easy Bob
Know your dad is finally at peace hugs to each and everyone .
Soar with the angels rob meet Deb waiting for you at the pearly gates . You can rest your weary body and now be a peace . You were a super grandfather as we watch you with the kids with pride, know you’ll never be forgotten its we’ll see you later . Xo Rob you were our family too!
Please accept our sympathies. Not only knew your Dad from hockey but also worked with your grandfather Les Smith, the accountant at Macassa Mine when I started work there in 1982 sinking the No.3 shaft.
I worked with Bob at Hydro when he was in Kirkland Lake. He was a thorough professional, dedicated to the job and all the sacrifices that entails. He was forever kind, interested in people and always strived to make the workplace better for all. He was a pleasure to be around.
Sorry for your loss.
So sorry to hear of Rob's passing
Our deepest sympathies to you and your families at this difficult time.
Bill and Stephen
Raven Beach Park Lot #20
Sending you our deepest sympathies at this difficult time. He will live on in your memories and forever be in your hearts.
We are saddened to hear of the passing of your father and friend. There have been a lot of fond memories over the years that were shared with him. Through all the sadness, just think he is finally at peace.
RIP my friend.
On behalf of the Hillgren family, I send our sincerest condolences in the loss of Rob. He was always smiling, kind, and a pleasure to know. RIP, Rob, and know that you will be missed.
So sorry for your loss. I remember Rob from earlier years,
May he R I P.
Pat & Lorraine
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your dear father/grandfather/father-in-law. Sending you my sincere condolences. May he rest in peace!
Ur dad was a great guy
I helped him coach hockey and he was a great coach.
RIp Bob
Thinking of you !
I first met Rob in Sudbury. I think it was 1969 when he came to Sudbury area as a Learner. Needing a place to stay, he decided to move in with Stan Walicki and me, where we taught him the skills necessary to survive away from home. Mixing tang crystals to make a breakfast beverage was lesson one. His survival skills developed along with whatever we could teach him about the line trade. On Friday nights, we would straighten out the highways between Sudbury and Kirkland Lake in our efforts to be with the loves of our lives, Debby for Rob, Sharon for me. Rob was a gentle soul, a kind person always willing to help when needed. He will be missed by many, including me.
Bob and I grew up in Chaput Hughes going to Kirkland West public school and playing lots of hockey on that rink. We did not cross paths again until I began working for Ont. Hydro in later years! My sincere
condolances to the Smith family
We are sorry for the loss of your father, grandfather, brother and our friend, Rob. Friendships that started in that old KL arena of both kids and parents bring back memories of excitement and joy, and standing together when sharing a loss. We too share the grief.
Ellen, Gerry Watson
