Robert "Bobbie" Dean Smith Obituary (1938 - 2024)

Robert "Bobbie" Dean Smith, 86, of Birmingham, IA passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at the Keosauqua Health Care Center in Keosauqua, IA. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at the Zion Bible Church near Douds, IA with Pastor Phil Ross officiating. Burial with be in the Maple Hill Cemetery in Birmingham, IA immediately following the service. A visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at the Cranston-Pedrick Funeral Home in Keosauqua with the family present to greet friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions in Bobbie's honor may be directed to the Zion Bible Church or to EveryStep Hospice and may be mailed c/o Cranston Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com. Robert "Bobbie" Dean Smith was born in Fairfield, IA, on March 1, 1938, to Robert W. Smith and Nellie Hendricks Smith. Bobbie graduated from Birmingham High School in 1955, a milestone that marked the beginning of a journey that led him proudly to serve his country in the United States Navy. It was during one memorable leave from boot camp that he married the love of his life, Janet Loeffler. The young couple moved to San Diego, CA, where Bobbie would be out at sea for four years, serving with dedication and honor. Upon his honorable discharge, Bobbie and his wife Janet returned to Birmingham, IA, where they would establish their lifelong home. His hard work and commitment to his job were recognized as he quickly moved to management at some of the area's notable companies. He was a dedicated employee at Falco, Loudens, and eventually Dexter in Fairfield, where he retired after many years of service. Bobbie was a man whose actions spoke of his character--dedicated, compassionate, and actively involved in his community. He was a member of the Birmingham Lions Club and the Zion Bible Church, serving multiple years on the church board, reflecting his deep-rooted faith. His love for sports translated into active involvement in youth coaching, mentoring young athletes in little league and basketball. In his free time, Bobbie enjoyed woodworking and carpentry as well as time spent on the golf course. He enjoyed many years wintering in Texas with Janet and spending time at their home in the Ozarks. He cherished every minute spent with his family, especially being his grandchildren and great grandchildren's biggest fan throughout all of their activities. Bobbie will be deeply missed by his family, his community, and the many friends he made along the way. Left to share his story is his devoted wife, Janet Smith of Birmingham, IA; two sons, Rick (Laurie) Smith of Climax Springs, MO, and Randy (Vicki) Smith of Douds, IA; five treasured grandchildren, Colin, Cameron, Caillen, Brandon, and Brittani; along with 13 great-grandchildren who will carry forward his legacy. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Carolyn Dorothy; and a brother who passed away in infancy.