Uncle Bob Smith (January 7, 2012)

UNCLE BOB SMITH (January 7, 2012)

Robert Joseph (“Smitty”) Smith, 78, of Leominster, MA, passed away suddenly on January 7, 2012. Bob was born in Presque Isle, ME on February 17, 1933, After completing high school, where he was active in javelin and discus, Bob enlisted in the US Army.  After an honorable discharge, he returned to complete his education at Aroostook State Teachers College, graduating in 1961 as the first male to graduate with a degree in Physical Education.  Shortly thereafter Bob became the first physical education teacher at Skyway Middle School and remained for 26 years.  In 1974, Bob earned a Masters degree in Physical Education at the University of Maine at Orono.  Bob coached gymnastics and wrestling and for 20 years his wrestling teams were undefeated.  As a coach, he had three state champion wrestlers and gymnasts.  Bob not only coached, but he umpired and officiated team sports.  For 22 years he officiated basketball, soccer and baseball. For more than 15 summers, he worked as a counselor at Camp Kennebec in North Belgrade, ME.  He was head of the canoeing department and guided campers down the Allagash River. Bob retired from teaching in 1990, but remained very active with skiing, golfing, woodcarving, and singing in church choirs both in Presque Isle and Leominster.  He was a great role model for his family.  He was very faithful and was true to his commitments.  He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Ann ; his son William Smith (former Kennebec Camper) of South Portland, ME; his son Terrance Smith (former Kennebec camper) , of Georgetown, TX; and his daughter Donna Leon of Lunenburg, MA.  Bob loved his family